Former President John Dramani Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer for the 2024 Ghana elections, has strongly advised voters against ‘skirt and blouse’ voting during his campaign tour of the Upper East Region. Mahama emphasized that a parliamentary majority is crucial for executing his agenda to revive Ghana’s economy.
Addressing a mini rally in Binduri on Sunday, Mahama stated, “Avoid any sort of skirt and blouse on December 7. We need majority in Parliament to be able to do what you want us to do for you. No skirt and blouse.” He likened split-ticket voting to entering a boxing ring with tied hands, urging supporters to vote for both NDC presidential and parliamentary candidates.
‘Skirt and blouse’ voting, also known as split-ticket voting, occurs when a voter chooses a presidential candidate from one party and a parliamentary candidate from another. Mahama argues this practice could hinder his ability to implement necessary reforms if elected.
The former president’s campaign promises include reviving Ghana’s economy, creating opportunities for all Ghanaians, and continuing human resource development initiatives. Mahama also committed to maintaining and improving the free senior high school policy, dismissing claims that he would cancel it as malicious propaganda. He highlighted the NDC’s track record in education, citing the Community Day Senior High Schools initiative during his previous tenure.
Mahama outlined plans to regionalize recruitment into security services and recruit 20,000 new personnel to support the implementation of a 24-hour economy. These measures, he argued, would help address unemployment and boost economic growth.
The campaign tour included stops in Binduri, Zebilla, Nabdam, and Bolgatanga East, where Mahama engaged with various groups including market vendors, students, and traditional and religious leaders. Throughout these engagements, he consistently emphasized the importance of unified support for the NDC in both presidential and parliamentary elections.
As the 2024 Ghana elections approach, Mahama’s campaign against split-ticket voting underscores the NDC’s strategy to secure both the presidency and a parliamentary majority. This approach reflects the party’s belief that a unified government is necessary to address Ghana’s current economic challenges effectively.
Mahama’s message resonates with NDC supporters who view a strong parliamentary presence as essential for implementing the party’s policies. However, it remains to be seen how this strategy will play out in constituencies where local dynamics might influence voting patterns differently for presidential and parliamentary candidates.
Source: ghanaiantimes.com.gh
