President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has encouraged Assin North voters not to vote for a candidate who might face incarceration in the future.
His remarks came as part of his campaign to raise support for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate in the Assin North by-election on Tuesday, June 27.
Akufo-Addo, speaking to a big crowd of Assin North citizens, emphasised the importance of making educated judgements during elections.
He voiced worry about candidates who have unresolved legal difficulties or a background that calls their trustworthiness and devotion to the rule of law into question.
“It is critical that we exercise our voting rights responsibly,” the President remarked emphatically. “We should not support or vote for individuals who are embroiled in legal squabbles that could lead to their imprisonment.”
“We need someone to come and assist you. Someone who will look out for your best interests. I heard Gyakye Quayson declare that you will vote for him even if he is in prison; can he work from jail? We vote for individuals to go to Parliament to work; how can he work from prison? Don’t vote for someone who will end up in prison; instead, vote for someone who can work to improve your life.”
Due to the legal issues experienced by its former Member of Parliament, James Gyakye-Quayson, the seat has been plagued by political instability.
President Akufo-Addo also denied attempting to influence the court against Mr Quayson.
Ghanaian laws, he claims, have caught up with him.
He also stated that anybody pursuing political office must be honest.
Before voting in the impending by-election, he advised people to carefully consider the candidates’ histories, credentials, and reputations.
