Electorate asked to take note of promises made by politicians

Bolgatanga, Jan 15, GNA - Party delegates and the electorate have been asked to take note of promises made by politicians during electioneering so that they could hold them accountable if they assume power.

Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, a leading member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), who is vying for the position of National Vice Chairman of the party, made the call at the party's delegate congress in Bolgatanga on Friday.

He explained that a party manifesto was different from promises made by politicians and that if elected he would ensure that the electorate document all promises made by Ministers, District Chief Executives and other politicians.

Dr. Spio-Garbrah advised NDC party executives and Ghanaians to avoid being influenced by money during elections.

He said they should rather vote for people with the qualities and competence to steer the affairs of political parties or Government. Dr. Spio-Garbrah cited that former President Jerry John Rawlings and President John Attah Mills have served the country without enriching themselves and have concentrated on the principles of social democracy. He debunked the notion that the relationship between former President Rawlings and President Mills was unhealthy as being speculated by some people and warned them against creating disunity in the party. Dr. Spio-Garbrah said that former President Rawlings was the founder of the NDC, who had ruled the country for 19 years and had much experience to contribute to the development of the party and the country.

He said: "Mr. Rawlings should not only be seen as the founder of the party but also a greater asset to the nation's development and therefore should be allowed to make contributions to national development".

Dr. Spio-Garbrah said he had served in the party as Director of Communication and Governance helped in mobilizing fund for party activities, formed NDC branches in the Diaspora and a former Minister of Communications.

He said if elected as NDC National Vice Chairman, he would raise funds for the party, strengthen the party structures and ensure the victory of the party in 2012.

Dr. Spio-Garbrah promised that NDC activists and foot soldiers would be given a voice, to improve the party's image and communication network, assist Government to deliver on its campaign promises and to ensure that the party was better linked with Ghanaians in the diasporas. 15 Jan. 10