Regional News of Tuesday, 30 December 2003

Source: GNA

Ghanaians urged to demand a new political structure.

Takoradi, Dec. 30, GNA - Mr. Daniel Arthur, Director of the Ghana-German Friendship Association (GGFA), has called on the electorate to demand a new political structure from their Members of Parliament (MP).

This is because democracy is not "self-executing" but rather a theory that must be fully understood and promoted by all. Mr. Arthur said this at the introduction of "Democracy at your doorstep", a political awareness and demand driven concept at Takoradi on Tuesday.

He said the concept was aimed at bringing political candidates, aspirants and the citizenry together on the same platform at the constituency levels for decision-making.

"Political aspirants would be identified and encouraged to communicate with their various constituents on their visions for the community," he said.

Mr. Arthur said this would assist voters in accessing the candidates and thereby make informed choices during elections. He noted that since a large number of Ghanaians lack strongly founded and independent political direction, they were often swayed by any political ideology.

"These group of Ghanaians constitute a fertile ground for dishonest political leaders who may try to create confusion before and after elections," he added.

He said the concept would help to eliminate bias support and reduce the demand for monetary and other favours from candidates during elections.

"Democracy at your doorstep would enable voters, to elect the best candidate and avert the thought of rigging even if the candidate does not win", he stressed.

Mr. Ebo Afful appealed to Ghanaians to join the GGFA and learn more about the new political ideology. He said a German school would soon be established to serve the entire Western Region to promote the activities of the association.