Peace in Eastern Region, my biggest challenge- Dr Apea-Kubi

Accra, Feb. 3, GNA - The Minister designate for Eastern Region, Dr Kwasi Apea=96Kubi said the most challenging aspect of his job was to bring peace to the volatile region for the people to realise their aspirations. The former Deputy Interior Minister was responding to questions when he appeared before the Parliamentary Vetting Committee to be examined for his new responsibility as Regional Minister.

Dr Apea-Kubi a physician described as unfortunate the bloody confrontation between the ruling National Democratic Party and the main opposition New Patriotic Party during elections. "I detest it and I will ensure that elections are peaceful (in future= )," he said. "Violence in any form is bad," he stressed and expressed the commit= ment to condition the minds of the people that politics was not a 93do and die affair".

Asked how he would be able to solve the dangers of illegal mining (Galamsey) Dr Apea-Kubi diagnosed the problem as not bonded to unemployment or poverty, adding that the people who benefited more from illegal mining were very rich people.

"The people digging are not those who get the money," he said. He noted that some chiefs had not been helpful in bringing the situation under control and said he would do his best to adopt a non partisan approach in solving the problem. He accused the police for taking disturbing fines such as GH¢200.00 from arrested culprits and free them.

Dr Apea-Kubi said the Birim River which was a source of drinking water for the communities around it was heavily polluted. He called for the rehabilitation of railway lines in the region to boost the bauxite industry. "The Eastern region is a volatile region but I believe with your cal= m demeanour you will be able to bring peace," Mr Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, th= e Minority Leader said.