Paragraph 1: The 2024 Ghanaian General Elections witnessed a remarkable display of civic duty by 86-year-old Madam Emily Lartey. Despite her advanced age and reliance on a clutch for support, she arrived early at the Holy Child Nursery Polling Station A in Sakumono Estate, determined to exercise her right to vote. Her actions underscored the importance of citizen participation in the democratic process, particularly in the face of prevailing economic challenges. Madam Lartey’s presence served as an inspiration to younger generations and a testament to the enduring power of civic engagement.
Paragraph 2: Madam Lartey’s motivation for voting stemmed from a deep concern for the state of Ghana’s economy and the impact it was having on vulnerable populations, including the elderly. After casting her ballot, she spoke to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), emphasizing the urgent need for economic reforms to uplift the lives of ordinary citizens. She believed that the election presented an opportunity to elect leaders with the competence and integrity to address these challenges effectively. Her call to action resonated with many who shared her anxieties about the economic landscape and the need for sustainable solutions.
Paragraph 3: Beyond merely fulfilling a civic duty, Madam Lartey viewed voting as a crucial act of responsibility in the context of the prevailing economic difficulties. She urged fellow citizens to resist manipulation and inducement, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making based on the candidates’ merits and proposed policies. She cautioned against being swayed by empty promises or short-term gains, stressing the need for long-term solutions that would benefit the nation as a whole. Her words served as a powerful reminder of the importance of ethical voting practices and upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
Paragraph 4: Madam Lartey’s experience at the polling station was positive. She commended the Electoral Commission for ensuring a peaceful and orderly voting process. The smooth operation of the polling station contributed to a calm and encouraging atmosphere, further motivating citizens to participate. She encouraged others to remain vigilant and peaceful throughout the election, reflecting her commitment to a transparent and democratic process. Her positive feedback highlighted the importance of efficient election management in fostering public trust and encouraging participation.
Paragraph 5: The Tema West Constituency, a stronghold of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), witnessed a steady turnout of voters at the Holy Child Nursery Polling Station A and other polling stations across the constituency. This constituency, one of three within Tema, had consistently voted for the NPP since the beginning of Ghana’s Fourth Republic. The 2024 election saw a contest between the incumbent NPP candidate, Mr. Dennis Amfo-Sefah (also known as Nana Boakye), and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Mr. James Enu. The constituency, with its diverse communities and significant voter population, held strategic importance in the overall outcome of the elections.
Paragraph 6: The Tema West Constituency encompasses a wide range of communities, including Tema Communities Two, Three, Five, 14 through 20, 23 and 24, as well as Sakumono Village, Sakumono Estate, Baatsona, Kotobabi, Lashibi, Klagon, Borteyman, King Solomon, Suncity, Promise Land, and Adjei Kojo. With over 134,611 registered voters across 11 electoral areas, the constituency represents a significant portion of the electorate. The diversity of the communities within the constituency underscored the importance of addressing a broad range of local concerns and tailoring campaign messages to resonate with the specific needs of each area. The high number of registered voters also highlighted the potential impact of the constituency’s voting patterns on the broader election results.
