Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Agyemang Badu II, the President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, has urged political parties to remain decorous and avoid hate speech in electioneering.
He said hate speech would trigger political violence, disturb the prevailing national peace, and derail development.
OsageyfoOseadeeyo Dr. Badu II, also the Paramount Chief of the Dormaa Traditional Area, gave the advice when addressing a colourful durbar to climax the ‘Meko Bono’ homecoming and festival, held at Techiman in the Bono East Region.
A group of Bono natives instituted the festival, which is celebrated annually to showcase the rich cultural heritage and tourism potential of the Bono region, and to attract investments and unite the people for the purpose of development.
It was held under the theme: “Promoting Unity, Tourism and Culture.”
Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Badu II said peace remains paramount and pre-requisite for development and called on all and sundry to contribute and help preserve and strengthen the peace of the nation for development to progress.
Mr. Seth Kofi Yeboah, the lead Organiser of the festival, said the occasionis also aimed at bringing together Bono residents living abroad to learn the Bono traditions and contribute their quota towards the socio-economic development of the region.
“The festival would continue to promote the culture of the Bonos and also improve the economic activities of the people,” he stated.
Nana Owusu Gyare II, the Akwamuhene (sub-chief) of the Techiman Traditional Area urged the people to embrace their culture and traditions since it reflects their identity and binds them together.
“It will not be good if the people forget or undermine their tradition and culture because culture and tradition create a sense of unity and togetherness among us,” he said, and urged the people to continue to forge ahead in unity and promote their tradition and culture.
A fund-raising rally in support of the festival yielded GH¢700,000.
By Jerry Azanduna
GNA
