Former President John Dramani Mahama has urged the Ghanaian populace to exercise discernment and resist any attempts by political opponents to manipulate their voting choices through monetary gifts and material offerings in the lead-up to the December 7, 2024 elections.
Mr. Mahama underscored the likelihood that some politicians might resort to using financial inducements to sway voter allegiance. Rather than outright rejecting such monetary gifts and offerings, Mahama encouraged Ghanaians to accept them graciously while maintaining their commitment to voting based on a thorough assessment of the current economic landscape.
In his address to the Chiefs and residents of Frankadua in the Asuogyaman Constituency, Mahama drew attention to a pertinent example in Assin North, where delegates accepted monetary contributions but exercised their electoral independence by voting according to their convictions.
Highlighting this incident as a testament to the strength of voters’ independence, the former President urged the people of Frankadua to follow suit. By advocating for a discerning electorate, Mahama emphasized the importance of voters making decisions based on a comprehensive evaluation of the prevailing economic conditions rather than succumbing to external pressures or inducements.
He said, “They will bring money to influence you to vote for them. Take the money because it belongs to you and disregard any false claim that the money would harm you spiritually if you don’t vote for them. I know they will bring money and some material stuff. When they bring them, please take them and vote genuinely during the election.”
In essence, Mahama’s message encourages a conscientious electorate that values the democratic process and remains steadfast in making informed choices, irrespective of external attempts to influence their decisions through financial means.
