Calls for Amoateng's replacement

Manso (B/A), May 19, GNA - Mr Joseph Mensah, former Assembly Member for Manso in Nkoranza North Constituency has called for a bye-election to replace Mr Eric Amoateng, MP for the area, who is currently facing trial in the United States for his alleged involvement in narcotic drugs trafficking.

Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) at Manso, Mr Mensah said the long absence of Mr Amoateng from Parliament was affecting the development of the area, as the area's share of the Common Fund was not being utilised.

The former Assembly member expressed regret about the case against Mr Amoateng, saying the people had lost greatly.

He described the MP as a leader and philanthropist who was always ready to offer support for an improvement in people's lifestyles. Mr Mensah recalled events before the general elections in 2004, when Mr Amoateng supported a number of development programmes in the constituency.

He said the vacancy created by the MP's absence had given rise to statements and comments from politicians in the area and called on the Speaker of Parliament to let the laws and the Standing Orders of Parliament to take their due course.

Mr Mensah advised the leaders of the various political parties to allow the government and the Electoral Commission to take the necessary steps regarding the Parliamentary seat in the area.

"The youth and members of the parties should guard against negative practices and confrontations that can create confusion in the area to disturb the peace and understanding of the people", he said.