Legal practitioner, Samson Lardy Anyenini has urged citizens not to take the upcoming elections for granted.

According to him, voters must be aware that there are serious consequences for electoral offenses.

He warned that individuals who engage in illegal activities during the election process could face significant penalties.

He pointed out that in 2016, the former Mayor of Kumasi, Maxwell Kofi Jumah, was convicted for electoral offenses, specifically for destroying a ballot paper. He highlighted that many offenses under election laws carry penalties, usually ranging between 200 and 500 penalty units.

He explained that, "500 penalty units equate to approximately GH₵6,000. However, if someone is unlucky, they could face up to two years in jail for their actions." Additionally, Mr Anyenini noted that many offenses come with a ban from voter registration and voting for a set period of time.

The lawyer also stressed that on election day, the law prohibits certain activities within a 500-meter radius of polling stations. Specifically, it is illegal to influence or intimidate voters, either by encouraging them to vote for or against a particular candidate. Any form of persuasion within this area is strictly prohibited.

Mr Anyenini concluded by urging citizens to be vigilant on election day.

"If you see anyone who is not supposed to be where they are, speak up," he advised. "If you witness any misconduct by security personnel, speak out. Remember, their job is to ensure the safety of the public and the integrity of the ballot, not to abuse their authority."