Participation in democracy is crucial for progress and change. Former President John Mahama emphasized this during his recent Facebook Live session where he urged Ghanaians to participate in the upcoming limited voter registration exercise scheduled from September 12 to October 2, 2023.
The Electoral Commission is conducting the voter registration to enroll new voters ahead of the District Level Elections on December 19, 2023. The Commission aims to register 1.35 million new voters during this period. Former President Mahama stressed the importance of acquiring a voter ID card, which allows eligible citizens to exercise their democratic right to vote and shape Ghana's future.
He noted that Ghana is facing a severe economic crisis under President Akufo-Addo's administration, characterized by high cost of living, joblessness, and hopelessness among the populace. The Akufo-Addo government has failed to address these challenges despite promises made during the campaign. Resources are being misapplied, overspent on government officials' comfort, while critical infrastructure is lacking.
Corruption has also permeated every sector under the NPP, denying opportunities to the youth. However, John Mahama said the power to bring about real change in Ghana rests in the hands of the people through their votes. Acquiring a voter ID card and casting one's ballot wisely in the 2024 elections is the first step towards building the Ghana we want.
He called on the youth in particular to take advantage of the voter registration exercise as it symbolizes their hope for a better Ghana and a brighter future with well-paying jobs for them and future generations. He urged them to vote for the NDC in the 2024 elections to actualize this vision.
Mahama also called on the Electoral Commission to reconsider restricting registration to district offices only, making it difficult for some Ghanaians to register. Easy access to voter ID affirm one's democratic right, he said. He challenged the EC to be more transparent in the processes leading up to and during the limited registration exercise.
In a formal letter to the EC, the NDC requested information on when the names and pictures of registration officials will be published, the exact number and distribution of workstations, registration kits and logistics. In line with Regulation 2(2b) of C.I. 91, the NDC also recommended that registration take place in electoral areas, not just district offices, to reduce inconveniences for citizens.
Mahama urged all NDC members to focus their attention on the voter registration exercise. He told all Ghanaians, especially the youth, to take the exercise seriously as it is about their rights, their future and Ghana. Only through participation in the democratic process by acquiring a voter ID card and voting wisely can Ghanaians demand and achieve the change desperately needed to build the Ghana we want together, he concluded.
In summary, John Mahama's message highlights the importance of civic participation through voter registration and voting to bring about positive change in Ghana. He urges all eligible Ghanaians, particularly the youth, to acquire voter ID cards during the upcoming limited registration exercise and vote wisely in 2024 to actualize their vision for a better Ghana.
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