Takoradi, Dec. 11, GNA - Shortly after the declaration of the election result the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis, which had been the quiet, became busy with traders going about their businesses. Traders around the central business district could be seen discussing and attempting to interpret the election result which, according to many of them, was "surprising".

In interviews with some of the traders on Wednesday, they expressed their disappointment and unbelief at the outcome of the election. While some of the traders were seen brooding over the result, some commercial drivers were seen jubilating.

Madam Beatrice Obuobi, a dealer in clothes, said though she was surprised about the result, she would begin a personal campaign for her political party.

She said though the results were very close, she believed that the run-off would separate the winner from the loser.

Madam Obuobi complained about inconveniences voters had to go through to cast their ballots. "The long queues, scorching sun and other financial implications associated with the process were stressful".

"If going for a run-off will bring peace in our country, why not, peace is all that we are asking for and I believe our leaders will respect the mandate that we have given to them and give us peace in return," Madam Araba Otuah, a trader, said.

She appealed to politicians, the media and corporate bodies to be transparent in their dealings to prevent the eruption of violence and other negative acts that could destroy the peace in the country. "Ghana needs peace to develop its socio-economic potentials and build a strong human resource base for the total development of the country," she said.

Mr. Johnson Adu, a teacher, appealed to Ghanaians to exercise their franchise without any hesitation.

Madam Dorothy Yanney, a student, said she had planned to travel to spend the Christmas holidays with her family but the run-off is likely to interfere in the Christmas festivities. 11 Dec 08