Some residents of Akwatia, in Ghana’s Eastern Region, have openly declared that they will not vote in the ongoing by-election unless they receive financial incentives from political parties.
During a visit to the Zongo-Vawaso Electoral Area, several constituents were vocal about their expectations of payment before casting their ballots. According to them, such inducements have become a norm during elections.
“The politicians couldn’t share money this time because of the strong security presence,” one resident lamented. “We didn’t get anything.”
Another voter added, “We’ve always been given money during elections. We’re still waiting to receive something before we vote. That’s why we haven’t voted yet.”
The by-election is being held following the death of the area’s Member of Parliament, Ernest Kumi. The contest is between Solomon Kwame Asumadu of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and Bernard Bediako of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Despite assurances from the Electoral Commission and security services that the election would be free and fair, these public demands for money have raised fresh concerns about ongoing vote-buying practices in Ghana’s electoral process.
