A leading member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, Nana Addo Dankwah Akufo Addo has advised the several faithful, hardworking party activists who have suffered disappointments since the NPP came to power to ensure that the concern of the NPPs project - the development of the Ghanaian society in freedom - remains deep.

Nana Akufo-Addo who is also the Minister for Foreign Affairs, admitted that the NPP ?ship' appears to be passing through stormy waters. He however advised those on board to put ?all hands on deck, so that we can steady the ship and bring it home safely to port."

The foreign minister who is one of several members who are expected to contest for the 2008 flagbearership slot, made these remarks in an open letter, reacting to an article written by another leading member, Mr. Victor Newman.

The minister's letter said Mr. Newman's article hinged "on the need to boost the morale of the NPP's supporters at a difficult moment for the party and its government... it is common ground that our government is experiencing its first serious political squall since we won the historic elections of 2000, some five years ago."