On Election Day in Ghana, there are at least 5 critical things you must avoid doing. Call them Election Day rules in Ghana on December 7th or things to avoid on Election Day in Ghana, and you will be right.
Engaging in any of these or similar acts can result in serious consequences for you as an individual and for the nation as a whole. These can be described as illegitimate acts on election day, and you would be right to view them that way. In this post, we explain each of them in detail to help you stay law-abiding. Remember, if you are caught engaging in these acts, law enforcement or concerned citizens may intervene.
What Are the 5 Things You Must Not Do on December 7th?
Do Not Engage in Any Form of Electoral Violence or Intimidation
The first thing you must not do on December 7th (Election Day in Ghana) is this. Don’t engage in any form of violent activity.
Do not take the law into your own hands or engage in electoral violence, whether as an individual or as part of a group. Such actions only disrupt the peace and stability of the nation. Acts like fighting, threatening, or intimidating voters at polling stations are criminal and punishable under Ghanaian law. Anyone caught engaging in these behaviors will face legal consequences.
Do Not Wear Party-Branded Clothing to the Polling Station
It is against the law to wear clothing, such as T-shirts, caps, or other attire, that bears party logos, slogans, or promotional messages on election day. Chanting slogans or playing loud music that promotes a political party or candidate at or near polling stations is also prohibited. Wearing political uniforms or party-affiliated attire to polling stations is expressly forbidden under Ghana’s electoral regulations.
READ: Can I Vote on Dec 7th if I Lost My Voter ID Card?
Never Attempt to Vote More Than Once
On election day, every eligible voter—be it the president or an ordinary citizen—is entitled to just one vote. Ghana operates a “one person, one vote” system. Attempting to vote more than once or impersonating another voter is a serious offense. The verification machines at polling stations are designed to detect such fraudulent attempts, ensuring transparency and fairness. If caught trying to vote multiple times, you will face the full weight of the law.
Voters Are Not Permitted to Take Pictures of Their Ballot Paper
Ghana’s voting system is conducted by secret ballot. This means you must not use your mobile device or any other device to take pictures of your marked ballot paper. Sharing such pictures on social media or elsewhere is a violation of the law. Any individual found doing this risks legal consequences, as it compromises the integrity and secrecy of the election process.
READ: 10 reasons why you must vote on December 7th
Do Not Spread False Information
On election day, the public relies on accurate and verified information from credible sources. Sharing fake news or unverified election results is not only irresponsible but also potentially harmful. Whether you are a private citizen, media professional, or political affiliate, refrain from creating or sharing false information. Such actions can sow confusion, create unnecessary tension, and disrupt the peace.
Avoid rumors, unverified updates, or misleading messages on social media and other platforms. Ensure that any information you share is credible and helps maintain the peace and order of the electoral process.
Stay Law-Abiding and Educate Others
Now that you know the 5 Things You Must Not Do on December 7th, share this knowledge with others. Help educate your friends, family, and community members about what they can and cannot do on election day. By doing so, you contribute to a peaceful and credible election process.
READ: Can I Vote on Dec 7th if I Lost My Voter ID Card?
Let us all act responsibly and ensure Ghana continues to uphold its reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa! Let us all keep in mind the 5 Things You Must Not Do on December 7th (Election Day in Ghana).