Security of nation is not threatened - UK NDC

THE United Kingdom and Ireland branch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed shock and disbelief at what it termed the harassment of former President Jerry Rawlings by security agencies in the country.

?The security of our country is not threatened in any way. This is evident in the number of foreign trips President Kufuor has and continues to embark upon. These trips are not the actions of a President who has grave concerns about national security,? it said.

This was contained in a statement signed by the chairman, Mr Alex Segbefia, in London, U.K.

The statement said the utterances of the former President are commonplace to him and which he has demonstrated for the past 21 years. It, therefore, described the strong stance taken against him as a storm in a tea cup and possibly a diversionary tactic in terms of the current state of affairs in the country.

?The cedi is depreciating rapidly, the economy is struggling, the rate of foreign investment has declined sharply and we are still waiting for all those jobs promised . Issues such as the increase in the price of crude oil to $30 per barrel and the effect it will have on our economy should be the focus of our attention,? the statement said.

It urged the security agencies to be circumspect in dealing with NDC functionaries and members.

?This is borne out by their recent handling of former Vice-President Professor John Atta Mills? wife in relation to vehicles in his home and the pursuit of others to the church,? the statement said.

The branch, the statement said, reaffirmed its support to former President Rawlings and reiterated its pride in the legacy of democratic dispensation ? we have bequeathed our beloved country?.