Former Member of Parliament for Kumbungu, Ras Mubarak, says the practice of vote-buying in electioneering is posing a significant threat to Ghana’s democratic system.
He believes this practice discourages capable individuals from participating in politics, as they may be deterred by the financial demands of securing a position.
In an interview with Barima Kofi Dawson on Nhyira FM’s Kuro Yi Mu Nsem Mr. Mubarak emphasized that vote-buying also makes it challenging for qualified persons to serve the country, as the process often favors those with the most resources rather than the most merit.
His remarks resonate with concerns raised about alleged vote-buying in the just concluded NDC primary for the Ayawaso East by-election.
He expressed concern that the electoral system is still being controlled by those with deep pockets, and no concrete steps have been taken to address it.
“Whenever we hold an election, vote-buying occurs and we just condemn it without taking action against it. It’s killing our democracy and making it difficult for good people to get into either party positions or parliamentary positions.”
Ras Mubarak pointed out that ‘moneycracy’ in elections fuels corruption, as it allows individuals with financial influence to manipulate the system, undermining fair representation and accountability.
He said this can lead to elected officials prioritizing personal gain over public service.
“Vote-buying leads to corruption; if it costs ¢5-7 million to get elected as an MP, the salary won’t cover the investment, so other means are sought to recoup costs and turn a profit.
“That’s why many MPs are often absent from parliamentary sessions; they’re focused on securing funds for their next elections rather than doing their job,” he stated.
He warned that if a solution is not found to this menace, the country risks having criminals running its affairs.
He therefore condemned the Ayawaso East primary election irregularities, stating that if those involved in the alleged vote-buying are found guilty after investigation, they should be banned from contesting any elections in the country for two years.
Mr. Mubarak urged National Democratic Congress (NDC) to revert to the old Electoral College system which was introduced in 2015.
He said expanding the Electoral College will help eliminate the delegate system, which enables vote-buying during primaries.
He noted that some MPs, including Sam George, Dafeamekpor, and himself, could not have become MPs if the NDC had not expanded the Electoral College delegate system, as they could not have afforded to buy delegates’ votes.
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