Kofi Akpaloo, the presidential candidate for the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), has vehemently denied allegations suggesting he exchanged his ballot position with representatives from the New Patriotic Party (NPP). In a statement that has stirred reactions across social media platforms, Akpaloo criticized the notion as absurd, questioning the intelligence of those who believe such claims.
During the ballot position draw for the upcoming presidential elections, Akpaloo secured the fifth spot, while the NPP’s Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia obtained the coveted first position. Following the draw, rumors circulated that Akpaloo had willingly swapped his initial pick for a less favorable position, a claim he has now publicly refuted with strong words.
Akpaloo’s response was direct and colorful, suggesting that anyone believing he would trade a first position for a fifth must be “mentally compromised.” He went on to critique the strategic choice of ballot positions, particularly highlighting the eighth position as disadvantageous due to its placement, which he claims complicates the voting process for supporters.
The allegations and subsequent denial come at a time when political tensions are high, with each party keenly aware of the psychological and practical advantages that ballot positions might confer on election day. The position on the ballot can influence voter choice, especially in environments where literacy levels vary or where the voting process might be less straightforward.
This incident has sparked a broader discussion on the transparency and fairness of the ballot position allocation process by the Electoral Commission of Ghana. While some see Akpaloo’s reaction as a dismissal of conspiracy theories, others view it as an insight into the strategic considerations behind what might seem like a simple lottery.
The Electoral Commission has not commented on the specifics of the allegations but maintains that the process was conducted fairly and in line with established protocols.
As the election date approaches, the focus remains on the candidates’ policies and campaigns, but incidents like these remind the public of the intricate games of perception and strategy that underpin electoral politics in Ghana.