Nana Yaw Korang Antwi Boasiako, Executive Director of the Alliance for Sustainable Development (ASD) and Mawerehene of the Bouyem Traditional Council, has cautioned that the growing practice of vote buying poses a serious threat to Ghana’s democratic development
He made the remarks on ASTA FM’s Kokrokoo morning show on Monday, February 9, 2026, while commenting on allegations of inducement during the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Ayawaso East parliamentary primary.
According to reports surrounding the primary, some aspirants allegedly offered delegates items including televisions, clothes, foodstuffs, and cash in exchange for votes.
Speaking on the program, Nana Yaw Korang Antwi Boasiako stressed that such practices undermine internal party democracy and weaken the credibility of the electoral process.
“Vote buying does not help the intelligent or the competent who may lack money to campaign. It favors those with financial power, and that weakens the quality of leadership we have in our country. ” He stated.
He explained that when money and material inducements become the main deciding factors in elections, capable and principled individuals without strong financial backing are discouraged from contesting political positions.
The ASD Executive Director warned that if left unchecked, voter buying could entrench mediocrity in leadership and erode public confidence in Ghana’s democratic institutions.
He therefore called on political parties, the Electoral Commission, and other relevant state agencies to take decisive steps to curb the practice, especially during internal party primaries.
Nana Yaw Korang Antwi Boasiako emphasized that democracy can only thrive when elections are conducted freely and fairly, and when leadership is chosen on the basis of competence, integrity, and ideas rather than money.
He further urged party supporters and delegates to resist inducements and vote conscientiously in the interest of national development.
Source: Elvisanokye.com / Kwadwo Ofosu Baffoe (K.O.B), ASTA FM 103.9 MHz, Techiman, Bono East Region