Every election season sees a segment of the population disengaged, uninterested, and unwilling to vote—a phenomenon commonly referred to as voter apathy. This lack of participation not only lowers voter turnout on election day but can also contribute to a rise in invalid ballots.

Data from the Electoral Commission (EC) shows that the 2020 parliamentary and presidential elections recorded a 79% voter turnout. Out of 17,027,641 registered voters, 13,434,857 cast their votes, leaving 3,592,784 abstaining. As the December 7 elections draw near, the question remains: will voter turnout improve, or will apathy worsen?

The entrenched political duopoly between the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has been identified as a key factor fueling voter apathy. A couple who have never voted in Ghana’s elections explained their indifference, stating that they see no tangible results from the electoral process. They spoke on condition of anonymity.

Ophelia Boateng, a trader at Circle, in an interview with Citi News’ Manuel Ayamah, noted, “Both parties are the same. Just that the NPP is a bit better than the NDC but they are cut from the same cloth. I vote in Kumasi and I won’t travel all the way to Kumasi just to vote and back.

“I don’t gain any benefits from voting. There’s no money in it so I won’t disturb myself. Even if I get free transportation I still won’t vote.”

Another, who gave his name as Nana Yaw, said, “I’ve voted before. Both major parties have to be replaced because they won’t help us. Mahama brought dumsor and gave contracts to his affiliates. Nana Addo has also done the same. In just eight years we have changed meters thrice.

“We civilians have no peace of mind. I buy prepaid for 50 cedis every week. Ghanaians must forfeit this election. We can’t vote for just a few people to enjoy.”

A trader who spoke on anonymity said, “I personally don’t feel the need to wake up that early to go and queue to vote for people who come back and basically do nothing. I will vote if I see signs of politicians redeeming their promises.”

Another opined, “I won’t vote because I can’t wake up, leave my kids and family, go and queue, vote for someone who comes and does nothing. Does not think of our well-being.”

Meanwhile, a report by Global Info Analytics revealed that the Ashanti, Greater Accra, and Western Regions lead in voter apathy, with many residents indicating they will not vote. The report highlights that voter turnout in the Ashanti Region, in particular, could significantly impact both major parties, especially the NPP.

Similarly, the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has noted low voting intentions in regions like Central (78.6%), Bono (78.7%), and Greater Accra (70.8%). Despite these worrying figures, the NCCE has launched campaigns to address the issue, though their efforts have been hindered by political parties’ reluctance to engage in community outreach programmes.

With political parties and independent candidates gearing up for the December polls, apathetic voters remain a critical demographic. If successfully mobilized, they could influence the election’s outcome significantly.