Ahead of the next elections in 2024, former President John Agyekum Kufuor has voiced serious worries about the rising tendency of voter indifference among many Ghanaians.
His concern is based on remarks made by voters who want to abstain, who express discontent with things like stalled development projects, ineffectual social programs, disputes within the party, and accusations of corruption.
The former president stressed the importance of voting in determining the destiny of the nation in an interview with a few journalists on Sunday, November 17.
In particular, he urged New Patriotic Party (NPP) members to put aside their internal conflicts and unite in order to win the next elections handily.
“Sadly, some people have decided not to vote in the upcoming elections, it really saddens me to hear some of these things. Governance is just like a human being, growth is about development or evolution. You have an acumen when developing or growing.”
He called for unity among the party’s members, citing the dissatisfaction that contributed to the party’s loss in the 2008 elections.
“In 2008 we lost the elections because we experienced disaffection amongst party members sometimes due to internal elections, where some felt that those in positions did not accept their opinions.
“When the event occurred, certain individuals experienced distress and subsequently abandoned the individual to manage the situation independently. If you remain passive, the next opportunity may be yours to assume a role within the party. In the meantime, the party represents a collective ownership among all members.
“However, that individual may choose to distance themselves from the party by pursuing an independent path or severing ties, neglecting the fact that the party serves as the foundation for the president’s leadership.”
He urged NPP members who have chosen not to participate in the voting process to reconsider their decisions, as this could significantly impact the party.
“We have reached a stage where it is essential to ensure that policies have a beneficial effect on citizens. Choosing not to vote due to various concerns is a significant decision. If you abstain, others will participate in the electoral process, potentially supporting candidates from parties that do not align with your views.
“By the time you recognize the consequences of your inaction, your party may have lost, and the newly elected party could pursue a vision that diverges from your own.”
Source: Citinewsroom.com