Tensions ran high in the Ashanti Region as Helga Boadi, a representative of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), accused members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) of bribing special voters ahead of the December 7 elections.
Speaking at a press conference, Boadi alleged that the NPP had been openly distributing cash at her polling center but changed tactics when they realized their actions were being monitored.
“When they saw that we noticed, they switched to Momo,” she said, referencing mobile money transfers. “It was blatant and disrespectful to the democratic process. These attempts to buy votes undermine the integrity of our elections.”
The accusation has sparked a wave of public reactions, with both parties trading blame in what has become an already tense pre-election period.
Boadi’s claims paint a concerning picture of alleged voter inducement, especially among special voters, who include security personnel, election officials, and media practitioners voting ahead of the general populace.
“This is not what democracy looks like,”Boadi continued. “We want free and fair elections, but how can we achieve that when some parties resort to such shameful acts?”
In response, NPP representatives denied the accusations, calling them baseless and politically motivated. Kwabena Owusu, an NPP spokesperson, dismissed the claims as an attempt to discredit their party.
“This is yet another distraction from the NDC. We are focused on engaging voters and sharing our message, not engaging in unlawful activities,” Owusu retorted.
Amid these allegations, election observers have called for calm and urged all parties to uphold the Electoral Commission’s guidelines.
“Any form of voter inducement is a threat to the credibility of our democratic process,” said Prof. Lydia Mensah, a political analyst. “Authorities must investigate these claims thoroughly to reassure the public that our elections remain fair.”
Special voters at the center had mixed reactions to the allegations. While some admitted to hearing rumors of vote-buying, others claimed they had not witnessed any such activities.
“I just came to cast my vote and leave,” said a police officer who spoke anonymously. “If people are giving money, it’s unfortunate, but it’s not why I’m here.”
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