Ghana will head to the polls in about seven months to elect a president and parliamentarians.

Ahead of that, the Electoral Commission will register eligible voters onto Ghana’s voter register in May, the majority of whom are prospective first-time voters.

Michael Otoe Coffie is yearning to have his name on the voter register and to participate in Ghana’s democratic process for the very first time.

Speaking to the host of Joy Prime’s 'Just Turned 18', Lois Shola Adeyemi, he expressed joy to be part of the voting population to decide who leads the nation in 2025.

According to him, growing up, he never had the chance to speak freely and share thoughts about the electioneering process. Elections were conducted, and each time, his views on whether or not he was comfortable with who was elected president were not taken seriously because he hadn’t turned 18, the legal voting age in Ghana.

Michael revealed that because society failed to engage him in any political conversations, he remained silent until his moment to speak freely came. Now, he is overjoyed to finally have the opportunity to use his thumb to bring someone into power and has no intention of taking it lightly.

“When I discuss elections with my parents, I make it known to them that now that I have the opportunity to use my thumb to bring someone into power, I will not take it for granted. This makes me very excited,” he said.

Michael also advised fellow first-time voters to use this opportunity wisely. According to him, Ghanaian youth face many challenges that can be solved if only the right people are voted into power. The voice of the youth matters and is key in the electioneering process. The best way to effect change is by registering to vote the right way.

'Just Turned 18' is a show that dives deep into the hearts and minds of first-time voters. It's not about political affiliations; it's about the issues that matter. Join Lois Shola Adeyemi as she explores the hopes, fears, and dreams of a generation poised to make their voices heard. Catch more insightful conversations on 'Just Turned 18' this and every Saturday at 10 a.m. on Joy Prime.

It also airs on JoyNews Mondays at 1:30pm with a catch-up on Wednesday at 5:30pm.

'Just Turned 18': The critical voice of first-time voters.