Ghana's progress is at risk if citizens persist in voting along ethnic lines or for monetary incentives, warns Mama Bobi III, Queen of Bake Clan of Ho Bankoe and a Circuit Court Judge.
Speaking during the National Commission for Civic Education's (NCCE) Constitution Day activities in the Volta Region, she emphasized the detrimental impact of voting based on tribal affiliations and financial inducements.
Mama Bobi III expressed concern that the prevailing voting patterns, driven by factors such as tribal allegiance, monetary offerings, and gender biases, hinder the country's development.
She urged citizens to shift their focus from superficial considerations, stating, “Until the citizens stopped voting based on who shared the most money, who is my tribe man, I will not vote for her because she is a woman, development would continue to elude the country.”
Highlighting the importance of the ongoing call for a review of the 1992 Constitution, Mama Bobi III emphasized the need to adapt to the evolving needs of society.
She noted that technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence (AI), were not considered when the constitution was enacted 31 years ago.
Now, it is crucial to ensure that the laws align with contemporary challenges and developments.
Constitution Day, Mama Bobi III stressed, serves as a reminder that Ghana is governed by law, emphasizing every citizen's duty to abide by the law and understand their rights and responsibilities.
She emphasized that discussions around the Constitution Review process should focus on addressing critical national issues for the greater good, steering clear of personal biases and disagreements.
Mr. Kenneth Kponor, the Volta Regional Director of the NCCE, echoed the importance of citizens' commitment to maintaining peace during the upcoming 2024 General Election.
He commended the collective effort in sustaining the 4th Republican Constitution for 31 years, leading to stable democratic governance and attracting foreign investments. Mr Kponor encouraged Ghanaians to take pride in the benefits derived from a stable constitutional democracy.