CHRAJ Criticizes Lydia Alhassan for Food Sharing During Special Voting

CHRAJ Condemns Food Sharing by Lydia Alhassan During Special Voting

The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has strongly criticized the actions of Lydia Seyram Alhassan, Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, during the special voting exercise on Monday, December 2, 2024. CHRAJ deemed the distribution of food to voters at the Legon Police Station polling centre as a violation of electoral ethics and a potential act of corruption.

The Incident: What Happened?

Initially, Lydia Alhassan denied the allegations, but a video later surfaced showing her and her constituency women’s organizer handing out food and water to voters. The footage sparked widespread public debate over whether such actions constitute an attempt to influence voters.

In her defence, the MP explained during an interview on Citi FM’s Breakfast Show with Bernard Avle that the gesture was motivated by compassion rather than malice. She stated that it began with a simple request for water by one of the personnel in the queue, which her team fulfilled. Observing others who appeared tired or hungry, she extended the support to more individuals.

CHRAJ’s Standpoint

Dr Joseph Whittal, the Commissioner of CHRAJ, condemned the incident, labelling it as ethically and legally improper. Speaking to journalists in Accra on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, he said:

“It is not right to share food, money, or any other incentives with people in the queue preparing to vote. Such actions are tantamount to corruption and raise serious integrity issues.”

He also emphasized that this behaviour compromises the fairness of elections and undermines public trust in the electoral process. CHRAJ pledged to consider this occurrence in planning and recommendations for future elections.

Public Reaction and Electoral Implications

The event has intensified discussions about voter influence and electoral transparency. While some argue that the MP’s actions were harmless, others, including civil society organizations, see this as a breach of electoral ethics.

Key Takeaways:

1. CHRAJ has firmly condemned the sharing of food during voting, describing it as unethical and a potential act of corruption.
2. Lydia Alhassan defended her actions, claiming they were compassionate and not intended to influence voters.
3. The incident highlights a need for stricter regulations to ensure ethical conduct during elections.