By Seli Baisie
Millions of Ghanaians are heading to the polls for the 2024 general elections, with a charged atmosphere as voting commenced at 7:00 AM on Saturday, December 7, 2024.
At the ICGC Calvary Temple polling station in the Tema West Constituency, Sakumono, voters from all walks of life joined long queues to cast their votes, contributing to the democratic process that has become a hallmark of Ghana’s political stability.
A total of 325 registered voters are expected to cast their ballots at this polling station.
Early Voting Process
In the early hours, polling officials, party agents, and security personnel were already on-site to ensure everything was in place for a smooth voting experience. The setup included clearly marked polling booths, ballot boxes, and strict adherence to electoral guidelines.
Voters began forming queues well before the official opening, but minor delays caused voting to commence at 8:00 AM.
Speaking to GBC Online, Electoral Officer Ruth Gyamenah confirmed, “Voting started at 8:00 AM after some delays, with the first voter being a female.”
She urged registered voters to turn out in large numbers even if they misplaced their voter ID cards.
“The polling station accommodates voters who have lost or misplaced their voter IDs by verifying their names in the register,” she clarified.
She added, “Individuals with old voter cards are also allowed to vote if their names are still in the register. There is no separate session for older voters; they are included in the general process, with verification against the register.”
Voter Participation
Polling Agent Mr. Bright Kwaku Ocloo reported a higher voter turnout compared to previous election years at this polling station, noting that the process has been smooth with no technical hitches so far.
Young first-time voters stood shoulder-to-shoulder with elderly citizens, united by their shared sense of civic responsibility.
Portia Tutu, a first-time voter, described the process as “smooth and efficient.” She arrived at the polling station at 8:52 AM and noted that voting was already well underway.
“There were approximately 50 people present when I arrived. I encourage others to vote promptly as the process is moving quickly and efficiently. Waiting until later in the evening may not be necessary,” she remarked.
