Otumfuo Challenges Parties

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has charged political contenders in the upcoming elections to adequately explain their development plans for the nation, in order for the electorate to make well informed decisions.

He was confident that Ghanaians would cast their votes based on the performance record of the parties and how realistic their development proposals are for the nation.

The Asantehene gave the advice when Vice-President Kwesi Amissah-Arthur called on him at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi on Friday to introduce himself to the chiefs of Ashanti since assuming office.

He said because elections were a process to promote the nation’s socio-economic growth, there was a need for those aspiring to lead the nation to inform the citizenry of how they intend to effectively govern.

In addition, he urged politicians to ensure the campaigning was issue based and not about conflicts, and prayed for peaceful elections.

The Asantehene congratulated the Vice President on his assumption of office and his selection as running mate to President John Mahama for the December elections.

He expressed confidence that Vice President would use the same zeal with which he executed his mandate as Governor of the Central bank, to support the President to effectively manage the country for progress.

He also encouraged the Vice-President to maintain his humility as he partners the President to bring about development projects and social infrastructure in the areas of education, water provision, roads and employment for the youth.

“We are looking forward to you and the President to lead us to address the socio-economic problems,” he said, reminding the government that they citizenry expect it to provide the relevant social amenities and improve their welfare.

“Ghanaians are monitoring your performance,” he added.

He prayed God’s blessings and guidance for the Vice President to be able to undertake the enormous tasks of his office, and wished him well in the elections.

“May God be with you,” the Asantehene said.

Vice President Amissah-Arthur, for his part thanked the Asantehene for his continuous cooperation with government, and gave the assurance that he will give off his best to support President Mahama to continue to pursue the better Ghana agenda.

He also gave the assurance that the he and the President would be committed to their open door policy, and asked the Asantehene not to hesitate in offering wise counsel on national issues.