Tension erupted at the Animgazanga Junior High School polling station in the Bolga Central constituency after a man, identified as Rufai, was apprehended by police for possessing what is suspected to be printed ballot papers.
According to eyewitnesses, Rufai was caught red-handed with the material, prompting swift intervention by the police. He was immediately taken into custody and transported to the regional police headquarters for questioning.
The incident has sparked widespread concerns within the community, with many calling for strict adherence to electoral laws. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances under which Rufai came to possess the suspected ballot papers.
Members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have claimed the papers were not genuine ballots but were instead used as tools for voter education, particularly for individuals unfamiliar with the voting process. However, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has countered with accusations of vote-buying by some NPP members, further intensifying the controversy.
When contacted, the Regional Police Public Relations Officer declined to comment, stating that the matter remains under investigation.
The unfolding situation has raised fresh questions about the integrity of the electoral process in Bolga Central, with both political parties urging their supporters to remain calm while the authorities work to resolve the issue.
Observers and electoral watchdogs have called for vigilance and transparency in the ongoing electoral exercise, emphasizing the need to uphold democratic principles in the face of such challenges.
