Bolgatanga, Sept 3, GNA - Right Reverend Emmanuel Arongo, the Anglican Bishop of Tamale, has advocated stiffer punishment for people who would be found guilty of embezzling or misappropriating state funds for their selfish gains.

He expressed worry that a few people greedily satisfied their interest at the expense of majority of Ghanaians, who were in dire need of basic social amenities such as good drinking water, education and healthcare.

Bishop Arongo was addressing the 4th Biennial Conference of the Anglican Young Peoples' Association (AYPA), in Bolgatanga. He said that the country could be at crossroads if immediate measures were not taken by the authorities to instill discipline in the youth, whom he described as builders of the country in the next generation.

Rt. Rev. Arongo appealed to the authorities to prevent stealing and called on adults to live exemplary lifestyles so that young people could emulation them.

He advised the youth against drug abuse, alcoholism and advised them to be respectful, strive to become good ambassadors of Christ and uphold the teachings of Anglican Church.

Rt. Rev. Arongo condemned cyber crime and the attitude of the youth to get rich overnight adding "today's society sees wealth creation and possession as the ultimate. But what would it benefit you if you have all these things without salvation ?" The Tamale Diocese President of the AYPA, Mr. Eric Adu, advised the youth against violent acts. He also asked the youth not to allow politicians to use them to achieve their selfish interest. Mr Adu urged AYPA members to contribute to the development of the group and growth of the Church.

The three-day convention, organised on the theme: "Growing into maturity to Discover and Utilize Your Potential," was attended by about 400 members participants from all Anglican Dioceses throughout the country.