Kumasi, July 3, GNA - Mr Kofi Opoku-Manu, Ashanti Regional Minister, has called on religious organisations to lead the crusade to change the behaviour and attitudes of Ghanaians towards the environment. He called on religious leaders to frequently sensitise their members on the need to ensure sound environmental practices.

Mr. Opoku-Manu was speaking at a non-denominational prayer meeting that was organized by the Ashanti Regional Local Council of Christian Churches to mark this year's Republic Day, in Kumasi on Wednesday. He appealed to Ghanaians to refrain from building on waterways and dumping refuse indiscriminately, which according to him led to floods in parts of the country, claiming lives and destroying property. Mr. Opoku-Manu urged religious leaders to remind their followers of their civic responsibilities, saying hard work, dedication and truth would propel the development agenda of the nation. He asked the Church to help eradicate all forms of social vices and promote unity among the people.

Right Reverend Frank Adjapong, National Presiding Bishop of the New Testament Assembly said in a sermon that the time had come for the church to rise up and decide who should rule the nation. He said the nation needed God fearing leaders and the Church had the duty to provide such leaders to champion the cause of the people, especially the poor and the vulnerable.

Reverend Adjapong appealed to Christians not to concentrate on prayers alone but to get actively involved in politics, to provide the right kind of leadership needed for national development. The meeting offered intercessory prayers for the government, nation, the World and the Church.