Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences of the University for Development Studies, Prof. Eliasu Alhassan, says politicians are exploiting poverty and illiteracy to monetise Ghana’s democracy, warning that vote buying continues to undermine the will of the people.

Speaking on JoyNews’ “Democracy Is Not for Sale” forum Prof Alhassan said poverty and lack of education have created conditions that make some voters susceptible to inducement during elections.

He noted that while some voters, particularly the educated, resist such practices, others willingly exchange their votes for money due to limited awareness.

“Politicians have capitalised on poverty and illiteracy. Some people even voluntarily sell their votes simply because they do not understand what is at stake,” he said.

According to him, accepting money in exchange for votes effectively hands over citizens’ decision-making power.

“If a politician gives you money to buy your vote, they are buying your decision to choose a government. Once you take the money and vote for them, you have sold your right to decide,” he stressed.

Prof Alhassan described the practice as harmful to democracy and called for a shift in how political engagement is conducted.

“Politicians must engage the people, explain what they can offer, and involve citizens in governance instead of influencing them with money,” he added.