Participate actively in upcoming general elections …CDS Africa urges traders
The Advocacy and Public Engagement Coordinator for the Africa Centre for De-mocracy and Socio-economic Development (CDS Africa), Ms Celestina Damoah, has encouraged traders at the Madina market to participate actively in the upcoming general elections.
She emphasized that upon reaching the age of 18, citizens acquire the automatic civic right to vote, which they must utilise.
Ms Damoah urged them not to be deterred by the prevailing economic difficulties but to exercise their right to vote in order to select a responsible leader capable of addressing the nation’s economic challenges.
She was speaking at the climax of the “Market Women for Peaceful Polls” event, organised by CDS Africa in partnership with the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) in Accra on Friday.
She encouraged them to advocate peace both prior to and during the election, emphasizing the necessity of avoiding provocative political messages that could lead to violence.
“The paramount consideration is our unity as a people; Ghana is our shared home, which underscores the importance of safeguarding our nation, its citizens, and the tranquility we enjoy,” she stated.
Additionally, Ms Damoah highlighted that as a democratic nation, it is crucial to allow peace to guide all political endeavors while honouring the perspectives of others.
Mrs Doris Agyemang, the NCCE Municipal Director at La Nkwantanang-Madina, also stressed the significance of traders participating in large numbers to exercise their voting rights in the election.
Taking them through the voting process, she said they should remember to go with their voters Identity card and not their Ghana Card because it is the voter ID that was recognised for voting.
She emphasized that individuals should refrain from wearing party T-shirts or colours when visiting the polling station. While at the station, they should remain quietly in line, patiently awaiting their turn.
“Should you have any uncertainties regarding the voting process, do not hesitate to seek assistance from the Electoral Commission officers present at the polling station. Upon receiving your ballot paper, ensure to check the reverse side for the EC stamp and verify that all details are accurate before casting your vote. Afterward, fold the paper vertically and then horizontally before placing it in the ballot box,” Mrs Agyemang advised.
She further noted that if a ballot paper became spoiled during the voting process, voters have the right to request a new one by returning the spoiled paper to the EC officer, who will then provide a replacement.
BY CECILIA LAGBA YADA
