Media Identifies with NPP - JAK

Accra, Jan. 30, GNA - President John Agyekum Kufuor on Friday described the relationship between the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the media as natural rather than making efforts to court the media.

President Kufuor who was speaking at a dinner dance organized by the party for the media in Accra said: " We do not have to make efforts but then the media identifies with the party."

He said the NPP and the media constituted critical elements in the maintenance of good governance in the country, adding that it was important for the two entities to cultivate beneficial relations for the interest of the nation.

President Kufuor noted that it was usually important for the media to work together with political parties adding "Even when we disagree it should be for the betterment of the nation."

He said this year would be an eventful year because of the elections and urged the media to gear up for the task ahead. He gave the hint that the government would within a week or so present the 2004 budget statement.

Mr Dan Botwe, General Secretary of the party said the media constituted an important element for enhancing the work of the NPP and it was therefore essential for such a meeting to organise for sharing of ideas.

Among the dignitaries present were the Vice President, Alhaji Aliu Mahama and his wife, madam Theresa Kufuor.

The others included Mr Felix Adjepong, Majority Leader in Parliament, Mr Freddy Blay, First Deputy Speaker, Dr Kwaku Afriyie, Minister of Health, Mr Mike Gizo, National Democratic Congress, MP for Shai Osudoku among others.