Minister appeals to chiefs to ensure peaceful elections

Ho, Jan 12, GNA- Mr Kwasi Owusu-Yeboa, the Volta Regional Minister, said on Monday that there could be no losers in an election provided a culture of healthy political diversities are tolerated, encouraged and promoted.

He, therefore, appealed to chiefs in the region to ensure an atmosphere in which people would be encouraged to join political parties of their choice.

Mr Owusu-Yeboa said this when Togbe Afede XIV, the Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, called on him to thank him and the Regional Co-ordinating Council (RCC) for their role in the burial of his predecessor Togbe Asor Afede VI.

The new chief also expressed gratitude to the RCC for its role in the celebration of his installation.

Mr Owusu-Yeboa said as chiefs they wield immense influence because they would always be winners no matter which political party is in government because their people would have a sense of belonging in all governments. He said it was important that chiefs in the region promoted the consolidation of their ethnic diversities.

''The ethnic diversities of the region are what constitute its comparative advantage over other regions which must be applied constructively", he said. Mr Owusu-Yeboa pledged the government's commitment to providing an atmosphere that would facilitate the peaceful conduct of political campaigns and peaceful elections this year. Togbe Afede expressed regret at the atmosphere of tribal politics in the run-up to the elections.

"Our peace is invaluable and must not be threatened by tribal agendas and aspirations. This requires the collective voices of all identifiable and influential groups such as the churches and chiefs to condemn tribal sentiments".

''I look forward to working with you to ensure that this year's elections are devoid of tribalism, bitterness and hatred so that we can safeguard the right of our people to the peaceful enjoyment of their lives", Togbe Afede said. 12 Jan 04