The Greater Accra Regional manager of the Catholic education unit Mrs. Cecilia Lariba Awini has cautioned pupils and children below 18 years to stay away from voting centres during the national elections on December 7.

She said it will be in the interest of the children to avoid being persecuted or getting involved in chaotic situations that will render them victims.

Mrs. Lariba Awini said this in a speech at the 16th edition of the festival of nine lessons and carol of Catholic basic schools in Accra held yesterday at Saint Peter’s Roman Catholic basic school in Osu.

“We know there will be a general election on 7th December and as children we are supposed to behave properly. If anybody ask you to go and vote and the person gives you money or promises you money please tell him or her your Regional Manager said you should not do that because you are not 18 years. If you try to vote and you are arrested, remember there is a court for children called juvenile court where you will be tried and sentenced. So please stay away from the voting centres,” she said.

Mrs. Lariba Awini said Christmas is a reminder of the significance of the birth of Christ and celebrants should not be carried away by the fun filled activities that come with it.

She said it is a season that provides an opportunity for Christians to pause and reflect on their lives and the things which are most important to them.

Such things, she said include family, friendship and neighborliness.

She added that children are essential tools for socio economic development of every society and entreated parents to keep an eye on their children to save them from social vices that would put them in any unfortunate situation during this festive season.

The nine lessons and carol festival saw singing and theatre performances by the Quaye Nungua/Teshie, St. Maurice, St. Peter’s and St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic basic schools.