At the close of polls at Community Centre A and B in the Wassa East Constituency of the Western Region, voter turnout remained alarmingly low.
According to presiding officers Emmanuel Cudjoe and Doreen Paddy, apathy among the electorate is a major contributing factor.
Speaking to reporters with just ten minutes to the official close of voting, the officers revealed that the lack of enthusiasm was palpable throughout the day. They also pointed to a disturbing trend reportedly circulating within the constituency—voters allegedly demanding financial incentives before casting their ballots.
“Many voters are saying they won’t come out unless they are paid,” said Cudjoe. Doreen Paddy added that this perception may have fueled what they referred to as “vote burning,” a term indicating disinterest or refusal to participate in the electoral process without monetary benefits.
While the exact origins of these claims remain unclear, the alleged demands for money underscore broader challenges of voter engagement in Ghana’s democratic process. Electoral observers and political analysts have previously expressed concerns over voter apathy in the region, particularly during crucial election periods.
Efforts by election officials to encourage participation appear to have fallen short in this instance, raising questions about the effectiveness of civic education and outreach campaigns in the constituency.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Caris Adjei London
