As the Ejisu by-election looms, a recent poll sheds light on the potential impact of vote buying tactics on the electoral landscape.
According to the survey, conducted by analysts at Global InfoAnalytics, 33% of voters in the constituency indicate they would accept inducements to vote for a particular candidate, while 32% would accept and vote against, complicating the effectiveness of such strategies.
The data further reveals divergent responses among party lines, with 42% of NPP voters expressing willingness to accept inducements and vote for the candidate, compared to only 14% of NDC supporters and 17% of floating voters. However, a significant portion of NPP voters (28%) and NDC voters (32%) suggest they would accept inducements and vote against the candidate.
Crucially, the poll highlights vulnerabilities for independent candidate Kwabena Owusu Aduomi, with 64% of those inclined to accept inducements indicating they would vote for the NPP candidate, Kwabena Boateng. Conversely, among those who would reject inducements and still vote for a candidate, a majority (52%) intend to support Aduomi.
These findings underscore the complex dynamics at play in the Ejisu by-election and suggest that while inducements may have some sway, they also carry risks for those offering them. With nearly 52% of voters who would reject inducements leaning towards the NPP candidate, the potential for backfiring exists, posing a strategic dilemma for parties considering such tactics.
In light of these insights, the poll serves as a critical reminder for political stakeholders to carefully navigate the terrain of vote buying and consider the nuanced preferences of Ejisu voters. As the by-election approaches, the electorate’s response to inducements remains uncertain, making it imperative for candidates and parties to engage with voters on substantive issues rather than relying solely on tactics of coercion.
The data provided offers valuable food for thought as the Ejisu constituency prepares to cast its ballots next Tuesday.
