The Ashanti Regional Police Commander, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Mr Frank Adu-Poku, has asked political parties taking part in next week’s parliamentary by-election at Fomena to co-operate with the Electoral Commission (EC) and the security agencies to ensure a successful election. He said since all political parties sought the peace and development of the nation, it behoved them to avoid animosity and other acts that could work against a smooth, transparent and peaceful elections. Mr Adu-Poku stated this at a meeting between representatives of the NPP, NDC, the EC and the security agencies at the regional police headquarters last Tuesday. He pointed out that without tolerance, political parties could not work together for the good of the nation. That was why the party leaders in the by-election, as well as their supporters, should accommodate each other as was done in previous by-elections in the region. DCOP Adu-Poku gave the assurance that the security agencies would put in place effective measures to ensure adequate protection at the polling centres. The regional commander, however, warned that the police would not take kindly to any person who would create trouble before, during and after the election. Officials from the EC, advised the leadership of the political parties to acquaint themselves with the rules and regulations governing the electoral process. This would enable them to educate their supporters at the grass roots, and thus help avoid violence. Representatives of the political parties also commended the police commander for the efforts he and his security team were making to ensure peace at the election and gave the assurance that they would do everything to abide by the rules of the game. Graphic