Cardinal Dery Charges Mustapha Ali
Jul 03, 2006
The Archbishop Emeritus of Tamale, Peter Cardinal Porekuu Dery has advised the new Northern Regional Minister, Alhaji Mustapha Iddrisu Ali to despise all passions and political feelings and stamp firmly on his authority to control the affairs of the region effectively. This he said would bridge the vast gab between the north and the other parts of the country.
Ghanaian Chronicle (Accra, June 30, 2006) He therefore entreated the Minister to work closely with all the traditional and religious leaders, heads of political parties, heads of institution, the security and other stakeholders to ensure sustainable peace, unity and development in the north.
"Work closely with all the people, whether rich or poor, big or small and respect their views and criticisms. Never work in isolation if only you want to succeed in your task," he advised Alhaji Ali.
Cardinal Dery made this call when the Minister and his Deputy, Issah Ketekewu paid a courtesy call on him at his residence here in Tamale for attaining the cardinalship position through his exemplary life.
He expressed grave concern about state of Dagbon, which he noted was lagging behind development as a result of instabilities arising out of chieftaincy.
The highly respected Cardinal encouraged the minister to place emphasis on education, peace, agriculture and youth empowerment.
Adding that the youth were the active human resource of the region for the promotion of accelerated socio-economic growth.
The Man of God who commended Mustapha Ali for his early visit, thanked him for accepting the responsibility as the administrative head of the people in the north.
Cardinal Dery shared some of his past experiences with the Minister and prayed for the success of the minister in his endeavors.
Archbishop Emeritus Peter Dery became Cardinal of the Holy Roman Catholic Church in the Consistory of March 24, 2006 in the first year of Pontificate of Pope Benedetto XVI.
The Northern Regional Minister, Mustapha Iddrisu Ali who described the Cardinal as a "Living Legend" asked God for his long life to enable him tap the rich leadership skills of the Cardinal.
He reminded the Cardinal that the who of Ghana and Northern Ghana in particular would forever recognize his achievements and contributions towards the development, peace building and upbringing of the youth in the country.
"I have come to submit myself to you as the greatest man of God for your continues prayers, directions and advise to enable me carry out my duty successfully," said the Minister.
Cardinal Dery Charges Mustapha Ali