Sunyani (B/A) Sept. 30, GNA - Alhaji Umar Abdul Kadir, Brong-Ahafo Regional Chief Imam, has appealed to the leadership of the various political parties to accept the results of the December elections in good faith to avoid incidents that may disturb the peace and stability in the country. He noted that the country could not develop without peace and advised Ghanaians to exercise their franchise in a peaceful manner during the elections.

The Chief Imam made the appeal in a speech read for him by his secretary Baba Awudu Gausu on Tuesday in Sunyani to mark this year's Eid-Fitir festival, which marks the end of 30 days of fasting by Moslems.

He urged Moslems not to participate in any activity that would disturb the peace in the country before, during and after the elections under the influence of any political party. "We Moslems must protect our integrity. We should not allow ourselves to be used by politicians to do anything that will destroy the peace during the elections," he added. Alhaji Umar stated that the country's democracy was matured enough to conduct peaceful elections this year, and there was the need for all political parties to avoid insults and rancour during their campaigns. He called on the Electoral Commission to be fair and firm in exercising its duties.

Mr Abraham Kwadwo Kwakyi, Deputy Brong Ahafo Regional Minister, expressed appreciation to Moslems for praying for peace during the fasting period, and urged them to maintain the spirit even after the December elections for the nation's progress. He appealed to elderly Moslems to lead exemplary lifestyles and educate the youth to avoid acts that would bring shame and disrespect to the Moslem community.