The Bono East Regional Chairman of the National Peace Council, Reverend Prince Asaku, has backed calls by civil society organisations Occupy Ghana and Transparency International for the criminalisation of vote buying during political party primaries.
Reverend Asaku made the statement while reacting to allegations of bribery that reportedly characterised the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Ayawaso East parliamentary primaries, held on Saturday, February 7, 2026.
Reports indicate that some aspirants allegedly induced delegates with various items, including television sets, clothing, food items, and cash, in exchange for votes.
According to Reverend Prince Asaku, the growing practice of vote buying poses a serious threat to fairness and transparency in Ghana’s democratic system, as it undermines meritocracy and weakens public trust in elections.
He explained that such acts create an uneven playing field and disadvantage competent individuals who may not have the financial strength to influence voters with money or gifts.
“Vote buying does not help the intelligent or competent individuals who may lack the financial strength to campaign. Instead, it favours those with money, and this ultimately weakens the quality of leadership in the country,” he stressed.
Reverend Asaku therefore called for stronger legal reforms and enforcement mechanisms to deter political aspirants from engaging in bribery and inducement, especially during internal party elections.
Story: Nyamebeye Kofi Ansah Sasraku