Accra, Nov. 4, GNA - Former President Jerry Rawlings has cautioned leading members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to desist from influencing the outcome of ongoing constituency and polling station elections or risk destroying the party.

The former President said some party members had become immune to the problems facing the country because they are comfortable.

"Some of us seem to have forgotten why we fought the battle to remove the NPP. If we are unable to muster the courage to clean the rubbish we inherited this country will never forgive us," he said in a statement issued by his office.

The former President was speaking to a delegation from the Brong-Ahafo Region who called on him to invite him to events marking the 50th anniversary of the region.

Former President Rawlings said last week there were attempts to scupper the election at South Tongu but the various branches refused to budge even though the incumbent constituency chairman wrote to them to postpone the vote on the eve of the election.

The election took place as originally scheduled and the incumbent chairman lost by such a wide margin. His rationale for attempting to block the election was obvious.

The spokesman for the delegation and Deputy Regional Minister for Brong-Ahafo Region, Mr. Eric Opoku, said the chiefs and people wanted to reward the former President for his invaluable contribution to the development of the region.

"The Regional Coordinating Council, the chiefs and people of Brong Ahafo want to recognise you for the developments you brought to the region during your tenure as head of state," Mr. Opoku said. Activities marking the anniversary have already commenced under the theme: "Brong-Ahafo@50, achievements, challenges and prospects." Former President Rawlings will be honoured at a special ceremony on Saturday, November 14.

Other members of the delegation were the Minister of Chieftaincy and Culture, Alex Asum-Ahensah, Alhaji Collins Dauda, Minister of Lands and Forestry, Samson Ahi, Member of Parliament for Juaboso and Azaanab Waksman and Justine Owusu Banahene members of the Brong Ahafo@50 Planning Committee. 4 Nov. 09