It’s unlawful to influence voters with food – EC reacts to case against Lydia Alhassan

The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has condemned acts of voter influence, stressing that offering incentives, such as food, during elections is illegal.

This follows a criminal complaint by John Dumelo, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate for Ayawaso West Wuogon, who accused sitting MP Lydia Seyram Alhassan of distributing food to voters during the special voting exercise on December 2 at the Legon Police Station polling center.

EC Deputy Chairperson Dr. Bossman Asare emphasized the law's stance against such actions, stating the commission would gather full evidence before issuing a formal statement.

Alhassan, captured on video handing out food, defended her actions, claiming they were made out of compassion, not to influence votes.

The incident has ignited discussions on electoral ethics as the December 7 elections approach.