Whiles lots of people on the campaign grounds and following their various political parties on rallies around town, there are also a number of people who do not like to involve themselves in political issues or others deciding not to vote. With barely a week to go, here are a few reasons you should make it a point to cast your vote come December 7:
1. Voting is your civic responsibility: Everyone has responsibilities at home, at work, in the community, etc. and voting is our responsibility as citizens of a country. We sometimes complain about how bad things aren’t going well in Ghana but when the time comes for a change, not everyone goes to vote. When we vote, we fulfill our civic responsibility, thus, have a say in state of affairs; however, if we do not vote, we have no right to complain about the state of the nation; be it good or bad.
2. Your vote is your voice: Of course, we all have concerns about roads, education, healthcare, jobs and many more. Listen to the manifestos of these political parties and vote for the one whose policies satisfy your needs and attend to your concerns.
3. This is your chance for change: Whatever your concerns, did things improve with the current government? If not, what are other political parties promising and how do these promises relate to your concerns or solve your problems? Ask yourself these questions, make your careful analysis and cast your vote for the leader that you believe will put your needs and the needs of the nation first.
4. Make use of your money: Did you know that you have a hand financially in the election process that is about to take place? Well, this is one of the many ways that the government makes use of your taxes, hence if you want to make good use of your money, you can start by taking part in the election to vote for that competent leader whom you believe will make this nation great and proud. Also, if you analyze party manifestos and vote for the leader whom you think has the best developmental plans for the country, obviously, you’d be glad to see your money being used on those projects.
5. People died so we could all vote: Voting right, in the past, was very difficult to obtain and not everyone had the right to do so. It took a lot of bloodshed, killing, humiliation, others being jailed, individuals getting attacked by wild dogs and many other unthinkable acts endured, before the right to vote was finally conferred on all citizens. Therefore, we must honor and be grateful for these sacrifices that our forefathers made to obtain for us this right, and show our appreciation not only verbally, but by going to our various polling stations to cast our votes peacefully.