Wa, Oct. 13, GNA - Mr. George Hikah Benson, Upper West Regional Minister, on Saturday called on Muslims not to abandon the good habits they had acquired during the period of Ramadan. Rather they should continue to lead exemplary lives and allow the spirit of sacrifice, commitment, forgiveness, unity and togetherness to guide their daily activities.

"Let us also hold on to the principles of sound moral values as enshrined in the Holy Koran and the tradition of the Holy Prophet". Mr. Benson said this when he addressed Muslims at the forecourt of the Regional Coordinating Council after they had prayed to mark Eid-Ul-Fitr.

They were led in prayers by Alhaji Mohammed Foroko, the (Jaime Iman), the Iman in charge of Friday Prayers. He reminded the Muslims that unity was an important ingredient for peace, progress and development and should therefore be upheld to lead the people to prosperity.

"Peace and unity are virtues that cannot elude us if we cultivate the spirit of understanding, love and togetherness. "We must work towards these virtues in order to create a better country for the present and future generations".

The Chief Iman, Alhaji Yakubu Issahaque, appealed to the government and donor countries to assist flood victims in the region with food and building materials to rehabilitate their houses. He called on health workers to step up their HIV/AIDS education to sensitise the youth on the dangers of the virus.

On Friday the Al-Suna Muslim sect called on Mr. Benson after the end of Ramada prayers and its leader, Sheikh Ahmed Yakubu Sidik, called on stakeholders in the region to find amicable solution to all chieftaincy, religious, land and political disputes to ensure the smooth administration of the region. He appealed to politicians to be mindful of their campaigns and the language and messages they give to the people to deepen the democratic process in the country. 13 Oct 07