When you do wrong all the time, it becomes the norm. But remember, just because it's normal to you, doesn't make it right. Normalising wrongdoing can lead to a slippery slope, where moral boundaries are constantly pushed and compromised. Stay vigilant, stay true, and always strive to do what's right, even when it's hard.
In a recent event involving the Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency, the subject of vote-buying through the giving of food to voters was brought to light. This is clearly a breach of Ghana's election laws. This is called treating. The alleged acts of Lydia Seyram Alhassan, an incumbent Member of Parliament, in supplying food to voters during the December 2 special voting exercise raise severe questions about the electoral process's integrity and respect for democratic ideals.
The police must invite her for questioning. It's terrible that individuals who should know better are caught up in this.
John Dumelo's bold decision to file a formal criminal complaint against Alhassan with the Office of the Special Prosecutor is a necessary step in addressing this violation of electoral laws and ensuring accountability for such misconduct.
Vote-buying undermines the foundation of free and fair elections by coercing or influencing voters through inducements, rather than allowing them to exercise their democratic rights freely and independently.
The act of providing food to voters in exchange for their support is not only illegal but also unethical, as it compromises the credibility and legitimacy of the electoral process.
National Peace Council and other stakeholders must intervene to uphold the standards of electoral fairness and prevent such misconduct from recurring on 7th December Election or any other elections.
It is crucial that all parties involved in the electoral process adhere to the rules and regulations that govern free and fair elections to maintain the public's trust in the democratic system.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor plays a vital role in investigating and prosecuting instances of election malpractice, ensuring that those responsible for violating electoral laws are held accountable.
Upholding the rule of law and enforcing legal consequences for such actions are essential to preserving the integrity of the electoral process and protecting the democratic rights of the citizens.
It is critical that the OSP conducts a comprehensive investigation into the allegations of vote-buying and takes decisive measures to prevent further illegal attempts to influence voters in the upcoming general election on December 7, 2024. We can protect our society's democratic norms and principles by responding quickly and effectively to electoral misconduct.
This can also help us avoid any further conflict in Ayawaso West Waguon. Mr Dumelo and his supporters should be applauded for not taking the law into their own hands by confronting them, which could lead to another violence.
As citizens, we must be watchful and reject any actions that threaten the integrity of our election system. To promote an open and legitimate electoral process, all stakeholders, including political candidates, parties, and security officials, must uphold high ethical standards and follow the rule of law.
The truth is that both the provider and the receiver are guilty of the offense. We can safeguard democratic norms that are critical to the progress and development of our society by holding individuals accountable for their actions and establishing an election integrity culture.
We should never allow some politicians to treat us as fools. Why won't they feed us during their four-year tenure but instead wait till Election Day? Could it be for buying votes? We, as citizens, should never undervalue ourselves; otherwise, some of these politicians will always take us for granted.
Vote-buying is a serious transgression that should be strongly condemned. By speaking out against electoral malpractice and encouraging transparency and fairness in the electoral process, we can reaffirm our commitment to democratic principles while also ensuring that the people's will is honored and protected.
When you do wrong all the time, it becomes the norm. But beware, for in that comfort zone of wrongdoing, lies a danger zone of moral decay.
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