Kumasi, Feb. 19, GNA - The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has praised the security agencies for the peace, security and political stability of the country.

He said notwithstanding the logistical constraints and operational challenges, they have performed creditably in maintaining law and order. Otumfuo Osei Tutu gave the commendation when the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General Peter Augustine Blay, paid a courtesy call on him at his Manhyia Palace on Thursday. The CDS was on the last leg of his two-day official tour of the Northern Comman d to interact with the Unit Commanders and inspect military facilities.

The Asantehene asked the military to remain politically neutral and ensure high level of professionalism.

He said by doing that they would be able to perform their duty of protecting the Constitution and safeguard national peace and harmony. Otumfuo Osei Tutu said there should not be any doubt that investors would put their money into the economy to create jobs only when there is peace.

He said he was happy with the improved relations between the security agencies and the civilian population, which had taken away fear and suspicion.

Lt. Gen Blay thanked the Asantehene for the enormous support he has been giving to the security agencies in Ashanti and said he was confident this would continue.

He said the soldiers were determined to work hard and provide adequate security protection for all Ghanaians.

Accompanied by some top raking military officers, the CDS earlier called on the Ashanti Regional Minister, Mr Kofi Opoku Manu, at his office. Mr Opoku-Manu, who is Chairman of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), noted with satisfaction the co-operation and good working relations among the security agencies in the region. Lt. Gen Blay also held talks with the Chief Executive Officer of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Professor Ohene Adjei, who appealed to the CDS to help release part of the land at the old military barracks to the hospital for expansion.

The CDS, addressing a durbar of soldiers and civilian employees at the Four Battalion of Infantry (4BN), later demanded from them total loyalty to the state and hard work. He told them that the Military Command was doing everything possible to address problems they faced. 19 Feb. 10