By Victoria Agyemang
Cape Coast, Nov. 09, GNA – Some residents in Cape Coast say they will abstain from the December General Elections, citing repeated unfulfilled promises by politicians, which they say stagnate national progress.
When the Ghana News Agency (GNA) sampled opinions of some residents in the Metropolis, on Friday, on their preparedness towards the polls, some said they were not bothered about the outcome of the presidential and parliamentary elections because it would not have any positive effect on their businesses and lives.
Maame Afua, a plantain seller, expressed skepticism about any meaningful change for Ghana, regardless of the outcome of the winner, saying that the country had been at a standstill since she started voting.
“It doesn’t make sense to rely on politicians to make any change in my life. We should concentrate on our businesses and build support systems for one another as citizens for development.
She emphasised that it was important to focus on individual growth and fostering of friendships where it mattered most than relying on politicians who canvassed votes but failed to fulfil the promises made.
Another resident, Mr Daniel Agyapong, said he would be an observer of the polls because of the decades of disappointment exhibited by the two main political parties.
Some youth also said they were not going to exercise their franchise in order to stay away from any trouble that may be caused by fanatic and aggressive party supporters.
“I will not risk my life and vote when nothing better will be added to my life, “Ms Adepa Daniells, a student said.
Mr Kofi Adebayo, a would be first-time voter, also said he would abstain, adding that politicians did not care about the electorate after they had won elections.
“All I care about is my business and how I will survive, I have no business voting for anyone to come and enrich themselves,” he stated.
However, Roland Okwan, a broadcaster, said he was yet to decide but would vote for the candidate who would convince him with their policies.
Mr Okwan said so far both the New Patriotic Party’s credit scoring system policy and the National Democratic Congress’ 24-hour economy policy were good for him but he needed some time to choose between them.
Meanwhile, the National Commission for Civic Education has been campaigning against voter apathy.
In marking the 2024 National Constitution Day, in January, the Commission urged citizens to understand that it took their collective efforts to build a prosperous nation.
Under the theme:“Together We Can Build Ghana, So Get Involved”, the NCCE expressed worry about the increasing trend of voter apathy, and urged the media and other relevant stakeholders to promote citizens’ participation in the December 7 General Election.
Constitutional experts say citizens must see voting in democratic governance as an imperative civic responsibility.
Voting, they say, enables citizens to make their opinions heard, even when they feel that their voices are stunted and democracy is threatened.
Additionally, it enables citizens to decide the policies that impact their lives and their families’ future.
One single vote, they point out, has made a difference in history at many times.
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