Mama Atrato II, the Queen Mother of Ho-Dome in the Asogli Traditional Area, has alleged widespread vote-buying in the Volta Region's Council of State election. She claims delegates received GHS 5,000 each in exchange for their votes during the selection process. This practice, she argues, undermines the selection of competent representatives and contributes to the region's underdevelopment.
The Queen Mother, a former Council of State aspirant, described her experience as deeply disappointing. She stated that money has become the primary factor in securing public office, rather than competence or commitment to public service. Mama Atrato II further alleged that approximately 40 delegates benefited from these payments. She contrasted this with her own offer of GHS 200 per delegate for "tea and transport," which left her unable to compete financially.
These allegations fit into a broader narrative of concerns regarding the monetization of Ghana's electoral processes. Critics argue that financial inducements distort democratic outcomes and hinder the election of leaders focused on public welfare. The Council of State, an advisory body to the President, plays a crucial role in national governance. Its members are expected to lobby for regional development and influence national policy.
Speaking at the JoyNews' Impact Makers Foundation "Democracy Is Not for Sale" forum in Ho, Mama Atrato II explicitly detailed the alleged payments. "Delegates were taking GH¢5,000 to vote for Council of State," she stated. She further claimed that these delegates were transported and accommodated at a hotel in Sogakope before the election. This provided a clear picture of the alleged operational mechanics of the vote-buying scheme.
The implications of such practices are significant for regional development and national governance. If representatives are elected through financial inducements, their commitment to their constituents' interests may be compromised. Mama Atrato II questioned whether individuals elected this way could effectively champion the interests of the Volta Region. She pointed to the region's persistent underdevelopment despite having national representation. This raises serious questions about accountability and the effectiveness of elected officials.
Mama Atrato II also extended her concerns beyond the Council of State election. She alleged that vote-buying has permeated elections within some Christian denominations and traditional institutions, including the House of Chiefs. She claimed financial inducements influenced previous contests for the presidency of the House of Chiefs. The Queen Mother welcomed the Supreme Court's alleged abolition of the delegate system, hoping it would reduce the influence of money in future internal party elections. She believes reforms are necessary to produce leaders who genuinely prioritize regional interests.
The Queen Mother linked the alleged vote-buying directly to the Volta Region's slow pace of development. She highlighted shortages of essential equipment in regional and municipal hospitals. This suggests a direct correlation between compromised electoral integrity and a lack of progress in vital public services. The allegations underscore the urgent need for greater transparency and accountability in Ghana's electoral system. Decision-makers and civil society will likely respond with calls for stricter enforcement of electoral laws and reforms to prevent such practices. The integrity of future elections, both political and traditional, will be under increased scrutiny.