Politicians’ Money and Gifts Are Taxpayer Funds, Accept Them But Vote with Integrity – Mahama Urges Voters

John Dramani Mahama, the flag bearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), has advised voters not to shy away from accepting monetary inducements from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) as the 2024 general elections approach.

The former President accused the government of accumulating large sums of money intended for vote-buying in the upcoming elections.

Addressing a durbar of Chiefs in Juapong, located in the North Tongu Constituency, during his campaign tour of the Volta Region, Mahama referenced the recent Assin North by-election as an example. He highlighted how residents accepted money and gifts from the ruling party but still voted according to their conscience, urging the gathering to do the same.

“Initially, people were afraid, thinking that if they took the money and didn’t vote for the party, the gods (kpelekpeji) would punish them. But we assured them that if someone takes your money and later returns it to you, there’s no issue with the gods in this matter. So, take the money and enjoy it,” Mahama stated.

He continued, “[In] Assin North, they took the money, and no one has faced any consequences for it. So, when the money comes to you in Juapong, North Tongu, take it because it’s your own money. But when you go to the ballot box, vote for the truth.”

Mahama emphasized the hardships currently facing the nation and reminded Ghanaians that their vote is a powerful tool to steer the country in a new direction.