Election Day in Ghana is more than just a chance to vote, it's an experience. From the noise at the polling station to the satisfying feel of your inked thumb on your ballot paper, here’s your step-by-step guide to voting the right way as a Ghanaian.
Step 1: Get in Line (and Please, No Queue-Jumping)
First, head to your designated Polling Station with your Voter’s ID card in hand. Don’t forget it. If there’s a queue, join in and please, resist the urge to cut in line. We all want to vote and trust us, that annoyed look and insults from people behind you isn’t worth it. Your generation might end up suffering because of ink and paper. How funny and lame.
Step 2: Show Them You’re Official
Once you're up, the Polling Assistant will check your details in the name reference list. Just smile and be polite; this is the first official step to making sure you’re ready to go.
Step 3: Get Verified
Next, the Verification Officer steps in with the verification machine. This high-tech device is like your handshake with the system, confirming that yes, you are indeed on the list.
Step 4: Receive the Presidential Ballot Paper
Now, here’s where it gets real. They’ll hand you your Presidential Ballot Paper. Make sure the ballot paper is flawless; with no stray marks, no folds, and most importantly, that validating stamp needs to be there.
Step 5: The All-Important Thumbprint
Now, make your way to the Voting Booth. Place your thumb on the ink pad, and then onto your chosen candidate’s box and press down like it counts because it does. No smudges, no double prints. Just one thumbprint.
Step 6: Deposit in the Presidential Ballot Box
Take that ballot and find the Presidential Ballot Box (not the Parliamentary one, please). Cast your vote with confidence. The subtle sound of your ballot hitting the bottom of that box? Priceless.
Step 7: Round Two! Collect the Parliamentary Ballot Paper
The journey’s not over yet. Head to the next Polling Assistant to pick up your Parliamentary Ballot Paper. It’s the same deal as before: check for marks and that all-important stamp.
Step 8: Cast Your MP Vote
Back to the booth. Thumbprint your choice for Member of Parliament. It’s like déjà vu, but this time, you’re choosing the person who’ll represent you closer to home.
Step 9: Deposit in the Parliamentary Ballot Box
You know the drill, this one goes into the Parliamentary Ballot Box. Double-check that you’re putting it in the right place. Imagine the embarrassment of putting it in the wrong box.
Step 10: Time to Head Out, or Stick Around for the Count
Once your votes are cast, it’s time to gracefully exit the Polling Station. You’re done. But if you have time and want to catch the final act, feel free to come back at 5 pm when the counting begins. Nothing says citizen pride like watching democracy in action.
Let’s all vote peacefully on the 7th of December.
