In a blatant violation of Ghana’s electoral laws, Gizella Tetteh-Agbotui, the sitting Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya West, has been seen actively campaigning in Tawiakwaa, Pobi, and Nyarkokwaa less than 24 hours before the polls open.
The Electoral Commission’s guidelines strictly prohibit any form of campaigning on the eve of an election, a rule designed to ensure a level playing field and avoid undue influence on voters during the critical cooling-off period.
Reports from these communities indicate that Tetteh and her campaign team have been holding rallies, rice, oil, sardines and making last-minute promises to the electorate.
Eyewitnesses claim her actions reflect a desperate bid to turn the tide in her favor amid growing indications that she may lose her seat to her main opponent.
“She knows she’s losing”, a resident of Pobi who requested anonymity for fear of reprisal said.
“That’s why she’s out here, breaking the law. She’s trying to sway people at the last minute, but we know the rules, and we’re not falling for it.”
Electoral Laws Flouted
Ghana’s electoral regulations, outlined in the Public Elections Regulations, forbid candidates and their supporters from engaging in any form of political activity 24 hours before election day.
The cooling-off period is meant to give voters the space to reflect on their choices without undue influence from candidates.
Tetteh’s actions, however, have raised questions about her respect for the rule of law, especially as a sitting MP who is expected to lead by example.
Opposition parties have already seized on the issue, calling for the Electoral Commission and law enforcement to take immediate action.
“This is an unacceptable violation of the law by someone who should know better”, a Spokesperson for the opposition candidate said.
“The MP is sending a dangerous message that she’s above the law. We demand swift intervention to uphold the integrity of the election.”
Growing Discontent Among Voters
Residents of the affected communities have expressed frustration over Tetteh’s actions, viewing them as a reflection of her desperation and disregard for the rules.
“If she was confident about her record, she wouldn’t have to resort to this”, a farmer in Nyarkokwaa said.
“This just shows she’s afraid of losing.”
Her opponents argue that the sitting MP’s last-minute campaign efforts highlight her failure to connect with the electorate during her term.
“She’s trying to buy time because she hasn’t delivered”, a teacher in Tawiakwaa said.
“But it’s too late. We’ve already made up our minds.”
Calls for Accountability
Civil society organizations and election observers have also weighed in, calling for accountability and urging the Electoral Commission to enforce the rules.
“The laws are clear, and they exist to protect the integrity of our democratic process”, a representative of the Ghana Integrity Watchdog said.
“No one should be above the law, not even a sitting MP.”
While Tetteh’s camp has yet to respond to these allegations, her actions have cast a shadow over the upcoming election in Awutu Senya West.
As Ghanaians prepare to head to the polls, the controversy serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance to ensure free, fair, and lawful elections.
The Bigger Picture
This incident raises broader questions about the state of political accountability in Ghana.
If leaders flout the very laws they are sworn to uphold, what message does that send to the public?
As voters head to the ballot box, these concerns may weigh heavily on their minds.
The Electoral Commission has not yet issued a statement regarding Tetteh’s alleged infractions but the eyes of the nation will be on Awutu Senya West to see if justice is served and the rule of law prevails.
Source: Eugene Arhin/Communications Director at the office of President Akufo-Addo/Awutu Senya West parliamentary candidate
