Democracy Is Not For Sale: Edward Gyamfi reveals why vote buying thrives in Ghana

Civil society advocate Edward Gyamfi has shed light on the persistent issue of vote buying in Ghana's elections. Despite widespread acknowledgment of its detrimental impact on democracy, both politicians and voters are unwilling to openly condemn this practice. According to Gyamfi, many individuals involved in vote buying deliberately choose to ignore the fact that it is harmful to the democratic process.

Speaking at Adom Brands’ public dialogue titled "Democracy Is Not For Sale," Gyamfi emphasized the importance of voters not accepting money from politicians, as it could compromise their ability to demand accountability from the elected officials later. He pointed out a concerning trend where political parties offer money to voters under the pretense of transportation allowances, leading some voters to turn up at polling stations only after receiving financial inducements.

Gyamfi questioned who bears the cost of this practice and highlighted the need for stakeholders to come together to address the issue and protect the integrity of Ghana's democratic processes.