In a powerful initiative to combat electoral corruption, the West Gonja Local Accountability Network (LANet) in collaboration with Northcode with funding support Ghana Anti corruption coalition, organized a sensitization program for the youth at Damongo Senior High School.
The event, held on Monday, July 8, 2024, featured Rev. Samuel Mahama Denkeri, who passionately addressed the students on the critical need to stand against electoral corruption.
Rev. Denkeri emphasized the importance of integrity in the electoral process and highlighted several key points which included :
- Bribery: He warned that offering or accepting money or gifts in exchange for votes is illegal and can lead to fines and imprisonment.
- Vote Tampering: Tampering with ballots is a serious crime that carries severe legal consequences.
- Fraud: Engaging in fraudulent activities such as fake registrations or multiple voting is punishable by heavy fines and potential jail time.
- Underage Voting: Allowing minors to vote is illegal and results in legal repercussions.
- Electoral Corruption: Any form of electoral corruption can lead to criminal charges and a tarnished reputation.
Rev. Pastor Denkeri also stressed the long-term impact of having a criminal record, noting that it can harm one’s reputation, job prospects, and future opportunities.
In a call to action, he urged the students to become whistleblowers and make their votes count by reporting any forms of electoral corruption they witness.
“See something wrong? Report it!” he encouraged. He provided a hotline number, 0800-000-700, and a website, www.osp.gov.gh, for reporting purposes.
“Your vote matters. Protect it. Make your vote count. Speak up against corruption!” Rev. Pastor Denkeri concluded.
The headmaster of Damongo Senior High School, Mr. Yakubu on his part urged the students to be good citizens by adhering to all that has discussed with them especially as they approach the December, 2024 elections.
This initiative by Northcode Ghana which was extended to not only Damongo Senior High school, aims to empower the youth to actively participate in creating a corruption-free electoral process, ensuring a fair and just future for all.
Source: Padfm.com.gh/Kumatey Gorden/0243531604
