|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has denounced the distribution of food to security personnel during a special voting exercise, labeling it as an act of corruption and voter inducement.
This criticism is directed at Lydia Alhassan, Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, following reports of food sharing at the Legon Police Station polling center on Monday. Dr. Joseph Whittal, CHRAJ Commissioner, strongly condemned the act, describing it as a violation of integrity and a corrupt practice. He argued that sharing food or money at a voting queue constitutes corruption and raises serious concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
Dr. Whittal also expressed disappointment in the security personnel who accepted the food, questioning their professionalism and impartiality. He highlighted the troubling precedent set when individuals tasked with securing the electoral environment engage in ethically questionable behavior. This incident, he noted, underscores the need for improved ethical training within the security forces.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has initiated an investigation into the matter, collecting evidence and witness statements. Dr. Whittal welcomed this development, emphasizing the need for security agencies to reorient their personnel on ethical conduct during elections. He noted that such incidents not only reflect poorly on the individuals involved but also call into question the leadership of the security institutions responsible for maintaining order during elections.
In response to the allegations, Lydia Alhassan has denied any involvement in the food distribution. She asserted that she was not present at the polling center during the incident, explaining that she left early and was unaware of the events that unfolded. This controversy highlights the ongoing challenges of ensuring fairness and transparency in Ghana’s electoral processes.
