Congresses not meant solely for election of new executives

Kumasi, Oct 31, GNA - Mr Emmanuel Nti-Fordjour, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has appealed to supporters of political parties not to perceive congresses and conferences as avenues solely for change of leadership or election of new executives.

He said election of executives was only one component of congresses and should therefore not be the only aspect that should engage the attention of delegates who attend congresses.

''Discussing past activities of the party, amendment of the constitution in some cases, and strategizing to propel the party to victory in general elections are all components of congresses and that these aspects should therefore not be relegated to the background.'' Mr Nti-Fordjour said this when he addressed the delegates' congress of the Asokwa Constituency of the NDC in Kumasi on Sunday during which new executive officers for the constituency were elected. The Regional Chairman said unless all components of a congress were given equal attention and positively addressed, the rationale behind holding such events might be jeopardized.

The election saw Mr Alex Attivor, the incumbent Chairman, retaining his position as a result of the withdrawal of Mr E.O. Atuahene at the last minutes.

Mr Edward Bani was elected the Secretary, Mr. Norbet Analga, Organiser, while the post of Treasurer went to Abdul Rashid. Mr Attivor called for unity of purpose amongst the rank and file of the members since it is only through oneness that the party could win the 2008 general elections.

He said the focus of the party for now was to ensure that polling agents are carefully selected, trained and enhanced to be more vigilant during elections.

Mr Attivor said this was crucial because of the realization that the NDC lost the 2004 elections to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) due to the lack of adequate vigilance on the part of the polling agents.