Let's embrace political diversity-Prof Ellis

Kumasi, Aug. 29, GNA - Professor William Otoo Ellis, Vice-Chancellor= of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), has asked politicians to be tolerant and embrace political diversity to deepen good governance.

He said accommodating divergent views and suggestions from opponents were vital for effective democratic practice and accelerated socio-economic growth whilst promoting accountability.

Prof Ellis expressed concern about considerable tension, rancour, unlawful dismissals and fundamental human rights abuses, seen during the past 19 years of the nation's democracy. This was contained in a speech read for him at the 41st national congress of the Ghana United Nations Students and Youth Association (GUNSA) hosted by the KNUST in Kumasi. "Political violence, an anathema to Ghana's democracy 96 The role= of the youth in sustaining the democratic process", was the theme. The four-day event is being attended by about 600 leaders of identifiable youth groups and students associations, nationwide. Pro Ellis said democracy in contemporary times has emerged as the most acceptable form of government, which could effectively safeguard the human rights of the people. It was therefore imperative for politicians and all sundry to uphold democratic principles and ethics in their respective capacities to help sustain the gains so far made.

The Vice Chancellor spoke of the need for leaders to carry themselves well, respect the dignity and rights of other persons and also promote inclusiveness and dialogue. Mrs Sedina Tamakloe-Atttionu, National Coordinator of the National Youth Authority (NYA), commended GUNSA for it efforts at actively involving the youth in the national development process. She urged the leadership to continuously work with local and international partners to create avenues for the youth to acquire knowledge and skills.