NAPO proposes 1st Thursdays in December for future general elections

Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the Vice Presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has proposed a change in the traditional election date to promote inclusivity among Ghanaians.

In a interview on Peace FM on Wednesday, he suggested that future elections be moved from December 7 to the first Thursday of December, to accommodate the religious beliefs of all citizens, including members of the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church.

“Ghana should consider moving elections to specific days, perhaps every Thursday or the first Thursday of the month, to ensure broader voter participation,” he suggested.

Dr. Prempeh emphasized the importance of allowing all Ghanaians to participate in selecting leaders for the next four years, noting that religious practices should not hinder citizens from exercising their right to vote.

Dr. Prempeh’s remarks come after the SDA Church raised concerns about this year’s election falling on a Saturday, conflicting with their observance of the Sabbath.

Although the Electoral Commission (EC) cited constitutional obligations and declined to shift the date, Dr. Prempeh expressed his support for the SDA Church’s call, appealing for a more inclusive approach in future elections.

He emphasized that choosing a consistent weekday would ensure broader participation without infringing on religious practices.

Despite the SDA Church’s guidance to its members on how to navigate the Sabbath during the upcoming election, Dr. Prempeh encouraged them to vote, highlighting the significance of their participation in shaping the nation’s future.