Hohoe, March 26, GNA-Alhaji Muhammed Tajudeen Mairega, a 46 year-old accounts officer of the Begoro District hospital in the Eastern region on Saturday became the new Sarkin (Chief) of the Hohoe Zongo. Alhaji Mairega succeeded his late father, Alhaji Amadu Mairega who died recently.

Sheikh Usman Nuhu Sharubutu, National Chief Imam who performed the outdooring ceremony called on Muslim communities to continue to co-exist in peace among themselves and the communities in which they live. He urged members of the community to co-operate, collaborate and accord the new Chief the needed respect to enable him to exhibit his leadership qualities effectively for the common good and development of the area. The national Chief Imam urged Alhaji Mairega to be guided by the principles of Islam, live above reproach and show respect to the elders and kingmakers for the maintenance of the existing peace and unity among the Hohoe Muslim community.

Mr Kofi Dzamesi, Volta Regional Minister called on the "Council of Elders of the community to give wise counselling and involve the youth in decision-making processes to ensure mutual trust, confidence and feeling of inclusion". He commended the Muslim communities for their immense contribution to national development efforts because that "collaboration could not be more than required at this critical time when we are faced with such problems as poverty and indiscipline".

Mr Dzamesi said government was doing all it could to break new grounds in its development agenda, including the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and the capitation grant and entreated Muslim parents to embrace these interventions. Alhaji Mairega in an acceptance speech pledged to give good leadership and called for co-operation from the people. Togbe Buame IV, Chief of Gbi-Bla urged the Zongo community to rally behind their new chief and foster brotherliness.