In a recent address at the inaugural Youth Against Disinformation Conference, Jerry Sam, the Executive Director of Penplusbytes, urged first-time voters to prioritize policies over personalities in the upcoming 2024 general election. He emphasized the necessity of making informed choices derived from candidates’ manifestos rather than being swayed by personal characteristics or superficial traits. Amid the current political landscape, which he characterized as more policy-oriented, Sam asserted that voters have a significant opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions concerning the real issues that affect their lives. He articulated that the focus on relevant policies is essential to reduce the prevalence of personality politics, which often invites insults, misinformation, and divisiveness.
Sam criticized personality-driven political discourse, which detracts from critical, substantive conversations and can foster a culture of hostility that might escalate into violence. He underscored the importance of deflecting attention from trivial details such as physical appearances or personal charisma, which often become focal points in campaigns. Instead, he encouraged first-time voters to concentrate on the policies and frameworks proposed by political parties, arguing that how candidates plan to address everyday challenges should take precedence in electoral decisions. He remarked, “The more we engage on policies, the less we engage in personality politics.”
To facilitate informed electoral choices, Penplusbytes has launched the platform voterscompass.africanelections.org, designed to assist Ghanaians in accessing political parties’ manifestos efficiently. This initiative aims to empower young voters with the information necessary to evaluate candidates’ promises critically, discern their feasibility, and investigate the timelines and political commitment necessary for implementation. Sam urged the youth to leverage this digital resource to educate themselves about the policies being proposed and their potential implications on their lives. This emphasis on informed decision-making is pivotal, as it encourages voters to hold candidates accountable for their proposed policies and actions.
Amidst the increasing tide of misinformation and disinformation pervasive on social media, Sam emphasized the need for first-time voters to equip themselves with factual information. By rejecting unfounded claims and character attacks, young voters can wield the power of knowledge to make well-reasoned choices at the polls. Given the chaotic media landscape, particularly during elections, it is crucial that these voters develop critical thinking skills and discernment in consuming political information. Sam’s advocacy for media and information literacy is particularly poignant in today’s environment, where misleading narratives can easily spread and influence public perception.
Through initiatives like the ‘Youth Against Disinformation’ conference, Sam has aimed to provide youth with tools to navigate the complex interplay of politics and media. He highlighted the urgency of addressing disinformation, particularly during critical moments like election campaigns. By fostering a community where young people can share insights and discuss the ramifications of political discourse, Penplusbytes seeks to cultivate an electorate that is not only informed but also engaged and proactive in shaping the nation’s future.
Ultimately, Jerry Sam’s call to action for first-time voters is a significant reminder of the power of policy-based voting. By focusing on candidates’ plans and their potential impact on society rather than getting lost in personality politics, voters can help ensure that future elections reflect the democratic values of accountability, transparency, and meaningful progress. As the 2024 elections approach, his insights serve as a guiding principle for young voters, encouraging them to embrace their potential to influence the nation’s trajectory through informed participation in the democratic process.
