While some first-time voters in Ghana have chosen not to cast a ballot in the upcoming 2024 general elections, others have chosen to vote even though they are skeptical about the impacts of their votes.

Speaking to JoyNews, some first-time voters contend that, despite politicians' manifesto commitments, elected officials put their interests ahead of development and advancement. 

Others believe that both the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the ruling, New Patriotic Party (NPP), which are the two dominant political parties have not demonstrated growth during their terms in office and are controlling the election.

Another believes that since the nation is not developing quickly and voting is a laborious process in and of itself, it would be pointless to go to the poll.

Kwame, a first-time voter remarked, “The election is already dominated by two of the biggest parties in this country, who in each of their tenures have not really shown why they deserve another chance in the seat with regards to the overall development of the country. 

“If I was to vote, it wouldn't make a difference because a large majority are either going to vote NPP or NDC because of personal enjoyment. The voting process is very tedious and energy-draining. I want my vote to reflect development and I don't think it's worth it anyway.”

Samuella added, “I would be voting this year I think. However, I have my own reservations, I actually don’t believe in my vote because it seems my vote wouldn’t do anything. I can’t say emphatically that the elections are rigged but, you let me not even go there. 

“That aside, nothing better comes out of whoever is elected. We keep struggling as a country, they say many catchy things in their manifesto but immediately they come into power, they totally forget their promises and focus on other things which bring no progress or development to us as a country but for their own personal interest and gains.”

“I won't vote because I feel the government who comes to power will not do what will help the citizens. We are always voting for the same people for the past decade and we expect different results. I feel it is a waste of time. Even if I vote for a different party, the majority would vote for the same people again,” said Derrick who is also a first-time voter.

Furthermore, Brobbey stated “I think I'll be voting but if there's any reason to which I would not, it will be the process of voting itself requiring people to stand in queues all day just to vote. I would have preferred a more electronic way where people could simply vote in the comfort of their homes. I also do believe most teenagers and first-time voters won't feel shy standing in long cues and all that. 

“Others won't also feel stressed up walking or traveling to their constituencies just to vote among other reasons but I think despite all these I might vote. I wouldn't say better but they'll try to accomplish something if not a little more, equal in measure to the previous government.”

Moreover, Queenstar, also a first-time voter remarked, “I've seen and heard a lot of governments come and go. They make lots of promises, fulfill just a few which is good but ignore the rest totally and even sometimes misuse our resources.”

Concerns regarding the efficacy of their votes and the general integrity of the electoral process are highlighted by the skepticism displayed by first-time voters in Ghana.