Mahama Calls for Hope After Special Voting Issues, Promises a New Era

John Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has called for hope and optimism following the challenges that arose during the special voting exercise on December 2, 2024. Despite issues with the voter list that affected some voters, particularly security personnel, media staff, and Electoral Commission (EC) workers, Mahama reassured the public that such hurdles should not dampen their spirits. He promised that under his leadership, a new era would dawn for Ghana, one that would bring positive change and resolve the issues that had arisen.
In a Facebook post following the special voting exercise, Mahama acknowledged the frustration many voters felt after they were unable to cast their ballots due to their names not being found in the Special Voters List. He expressed his gratitude to those who participated in the process, despite the setbacks. “Our security and media personnel and staff of the Electoral Commission of Ghana have voted today, and I sincerely appreciate the overwhelming assurance my team and I received from you,” Mahama wrote. He went on to reassure those who faced difficulties, urging them not to lose hope. “Unfortunately, some of you could not vote because your details could not be traced in the Special Voters List. I urge you to be of good cheer because the new era to reset our country beckons. Thank you for opting for change.”
Mahama also expressed disappointment over the postponement of the special voting in the Eastern and Western regions, which was initially scheduled for December 2, 2024. He noted that the delay, now rescheduled for Thursday, December 5, 2024, added to the already challenging socio-economic conditions in those regions. “Regrettably, Special Voting in Eastern and Western regions remain postponed to Thursday, December 5, 2024, adding more burden to your numerous socio-economic challenges,” Mahama said.
The special voting exercise, which forms part of the 2024 general elections, was intended to allow key personnel, such as security forces, media workers, and EC staff, to vote in advance of the main election day. The exercise was carried out on December 2 across 14 of Ghana’s 16 regions. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, the Eastern and Western regions were excluded from the process.
Jean Mensa, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, explained the reason for the exclusion of these two regions in a press briefing on December 1, 2024. She revealed that a defaced ballot paper meant for the Eastern Region had been accidentally leaked from the printing house. This error led the EC to postpone the special voting in both the Eastern and Western regions to December 5, to allow for the correction of the issue. The delay in the Eastern and Western regions was a significant disruption, and it added to the mounting concerns over the smooth execution of the electoral process.
Despite these challenges, Mahama emphasized that these issues would be resolved, and a better future for the country was on the horizon. He reiterated his commitment to ensuring that Ghana would be reset under his leadership, encouraging voters to continue supporting his call for change.
The special voting exercise, despite the hiccups, was an important milestone in the lead-up to the 2024 general elections. It allowed essential personnel to fulfill their civic duties before the official election day, ensuring they could carry out their responsibilities without being hindered by election-day duties. However, the hiccups that arose during this exercise, particularly with the voter list, highlighted the need for greater coordination and attention to detail from the Electoral Commission and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth election process across the country.
As the election approaches, Mahama’s calls for optimism, change, and unity serve as a reminder of the importance of a peaceful and inclusive electoral process. Despite the obstacles, Mahama’s message was clear: a new era of leadership is possible, and Ghana can overcome the challenges it faces, with the full participation of its citizens. The delays in the special voting and issues with the voter list have created concerns, but Mahama’s message aims to reassure voters that these issues will be addressed and that the path forward is one of hope and progress for the country.