Ayawaso West Wuogon MP defends food distribution during special voting exercise
Lydia Seyram Alhassan, Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, has addressed concerns following a video showing her and her constituency women’s organizer distributing food to voters during the Special Voting exercise on December 2, 2024.
The incident at the Legon Police Station polling centre has sparked debates over potential voter influence and electoral ethics.
Responding in an interview on Citi FM, Alhassan denied any intent to sway voters, explaining that the gesture arose from compassion after observing individuals in the queue who appeared tired or hungry.
The MP clarified that the food and water were initially meant for her agents and media personnel overseeing the process.
When additional requests arose, her team extended the assistance to others. Alhassan emphasized that she visited the polling station in her capacity as a stakeholder to monitor proceedings and left before any subsequent incidents occurred.
The gesture has drawn criticism, including from her political opponent John Dumelo, who questioned its implications on electoral fairness.
However, Alhassan dismissed such claims, reiterating her focus on ensuring a smooth and inclusive voting process.
