The out-going Chairman of the UK and Ireland Chapter of the ruling National Democratic Congress, Horace Nii Ayi Ankrah has charged his fellow politicians to show a good level of what he believes the good people of Ghana are looking for in nation building. Speaking in an interview, Mr Ankrah is of the view that “the Ghanaian is looking for authenticity, innovation, lateral thinking and boldness in politicians as their genuine contribution towards nation building.” He stressed that “I am not calling for an era of contrarianism but a particular form of authenticity where integrity, character and judgement should be the rod to always guide us in addition to making it a duty to give reasons for decisions.” He noted that as a country working tirelessly to embrace democracy to the highest level, politicians should endeavour not to fail, no matter where they find themselves, because when politicians fail democracy will fail. “The time has come, for the benefit of Ghanaians and for the love of democracy, for individuals acting out of conviction, principles and belief, who are determined to fight a system designed to stifle debate be entertained because such restraint is counterproductive and does not get the authenticity and boldness out of politicians“. Mr Ankrah noted that the country is abounding with politicians who have shown authenticity and boldness and such politicians should come out with unimaginable contributions to stir debate to make the political terrain more educative. He cited the recent post-verdict programme by GTV Talking Point as an example of the debate the country needs and pointed out that “the recent call for a second chamber by ex-president Kufuor should stir a constructive debate to turn politics into a classic form of educational tool that will educate Ghanaians through organised debates. We need to consider lateral thinking by politicians and debate them than just brushing them aside at the least opportunity". “Our statesmen should initiate debates out of conviction, principles and belief to stir the necessary debates or forum that will help in nation building,” he added. Asked why he was not contesting the position of Chapter Chairman for a second term when the NDC is in power, Mr Ankrah said it has been a personal principle from the very day he was elected four years ago. “This will give opportunity to others to birth their vision,” he concluded.