Veteran journalist and Editor-in-Chief of the Insight newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr., has condemned the alleged distribution of food to voters during the Special Voting exercise held on Monday, December 2, at Ayawaso West Wuogon.
The exercise saw the participation of security personnel, media practitioners, and other eligible voters. Notable presidential candidates in the race include Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Kwadwo Alan Kyerematen of the Movement for Change, and Nana Kwame Bediako, alias Cheddar, of the New Force.
Mr. Pratt criticized the conduct of Ayawaso West Wuogon Member of Parliament, Lydia Alhassan, who allegedly distributed food packs to voters. He described the act as unethical and a potential violation of electoral laws.
Highlighting the risks, Mr. Pratt raised concerns about possible electoral malpractice, such as voters swapping their original ballots with pre-marked ones in exchange for the distributed items. He further expressed alarm at the sight of security officers receiving such benefits, arguing that it could compromise their neutrality and ability to discharge their duties effectively.
Lydia Alhassan Denies Allegations
In response, Lydia Alhassan refuted the claims during an interview with JoyNews. She stated she was not present at the polling station at the time of the alleged distribution.
“I wasn’t here. I don’t know if you saw me here. I came here before 6 am, and I left a few minutes ago. I don’t even know what you’re talking about,” she said, adding that she intends to investigate the matter further.
The incident has sparked debate over the influence of such practices on the integrity of elections as Ghana gears up for a competitive presidential and parliamentary race
About The Author
