NCCE Urges Electorate to Resist Inducement in Upcoming Elections.

Accra: The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has called on voters to reject any inducements from political parties or candidates on Election Day. This appeal comes as Ghana gears up for the polls scheduled for Saturday, December 7, 2024.According to Ghana News Agency, the warning from the NCCE follows a viral video that revealed the team of the incumbent Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, Lydia Seyram Alhassan, distributing items to voters during the Special Voting exercise within the constituency. Dr. Imrana Mohammed, the NCCE Director of Programmes, condemned this action, emphasizing that it compromises electoral integrity and contravenes the country's electoral laws.During a voter education event for women's groups in the Odododiodioo area, Dr. Mohammed highlighted the detrimental impact of such practices on national development and urged voters to stay alert. He reminded the audience that vote buying and voter inducement are against the law. Dr. Mohammed pointed out that adequa te institutional arrangements are in place at polling stations to meet all necessary needs, and political parties should refrain from distributing food or gifts to voters in queues, as this is not encouraged.Mr. Mohammed further warned that accepting gifts in exchange for votes would erode citizens' ability to hold elected leaders accountable, ultimately stalling the nation's progress. He urged political parties and their candidates to adhere strictly to electoral rules to ensure a free, fair, and transparent election process. Additionally, he lauded the Special Prosecutor for launching investigations into the Ayawaso West Wuogon incident.The voter education exercise, organized by the NCCE in Ashiedu Keteke Sub-Metro with support from the UNDP, aimed to boost women's participation in the electoral process and enhance voter awareness of Election Day protocols to fortify Ghana's democratic governance. Mrs. Gloria Amarkai Kudo, Deputy NCCE Director for Greater Accra, urged women to engage actively in the ele ctions, highlighting their crucial role in selecting capable leaders based on policies for the December 7 elections.Mrs. Kudo emphasized that voting is a significant decision-making process with long-term implications for individuals and families. She also refuted false information suggesting the elections would occur over two days, reaffirming that they are set for December 7, 2024. Meanwhile, Mr. Gabriel Bekoe Ofori, Assistant Director of the NCCE for Ashiedu Keteke Sub-Metro, cautioned voters against photographing their ballots, as this could have legal repercussions. He also stressed the importance of respecting and cooperating with Electoral Commission officials to facilitate a smooth and peaceful election.