Social commentator Charles Mintah has warned that the growing practice of vote buying could undermine Ghana’s democracy and discourage citizens from participating in future elections.
According to him, democracy is expected to deliver development and accountability, but the increasing influence of money in elections is preventing voters from choosing the best candidates.
Mr. Mintah made the comments at the Western Regional edition of Adom Brands’ “Democracy Is Not For Sale” forum held at the Takoradi Library.
The forum brought together citizens and key stakeholders to discuss the growing influence of money in Ghana’s democratic process, including vote buying, campaign financing, the rising cost of political participation and illicit funding in elections.
He questioned whether elections can be considered free and fair when candidates use money and other incentives to influence voters.
“Democracy must produce free and fair elections. When vote buying comes in, does that give us free and fair elections? Because money is used there, there is no free and fair election,” he said.
Mr. Mintah explained that vote buying also affects accountability, as elected officials may feel less obligated to serve citizens after securing power through financial inducements.
“Elections sometimes don’t bring the best person. It doesn’t bring accountability because you have already collected money from the person,” he added.
He urged citizens to shift their focus from immediate personal benefits to demanding long-term development from political leaders.
“We have to question the politician what gain are they bringing to us in the community, but no, we ask them to pay for fees and health and others. But that is not the way,” he said.
The social commentator warned that if the trend continues, it could lead to voter apathy, with citizens losing interest in participating in elections.
“Democracy should bring us development and not what we do now. If not, it will get to a point no one will come out or vote,” he cautioned.
The “Democracy Is Not For Sale” forum is aimed at creating awareness about the dangers of vote buying and promoting an accountable, issue-based democratic culture in Ghana.
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