Accra, July 27, GNA 96 The National Democratic Congress (NDC) on Thursday called for the involvement of all stakeholders and political parties at leadership level in the planning of Ghana's 50th independence anniversary celebrations.

In a statement signed in Accra by Mr Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, General Secretary, the NDC called for the reconstitution of the Planning Committee to reflect various shades of opinion and a review of the budget 93to reflect the socio-economic realities of the country=94. It said the setting up of a National Planning Committee without the involvement of major stakeholders and political parties could give the event partisan coloration.

The NDC said the attainment of the 50th independence anniversary called for celebration and stock-taking by all well-meaning Ghanaians and criticised the Government for the amount of money earmarked for the event.

"Much as we believe that the Government has a responsibility in setting the pace for the celebration, we are disappointed by the approach of the Government in the handling of this all-important event."

The NDC said it took objection to the allocation of 182.9 billion cedis for the celebration given the poverty, hardships and agitation of workers for higher salaries.

The NDC also criticised the appointment of Dr Charles Wereko-Brobby as Chief Executive of the National Planning Committee. Ghana celebrates its 50th independence anniversary on March 6, 2007.