Pollster and Editor of the Daily Dispatch newspaper, Ben Ephson, has asserted that the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) primaries could determine if people will show up for the new voters’ registration.
In an interview with Samuel Eshun on the Happy Morning show, he explained that the composure of delegates during the voting can likely increase the spread of the virus . And when people observe this happening, it might create apathy towards the new voters’ registration.
“I think that generally, it should be peaceful but the aftermath of it is likely to be towards 2020 elections when people are dissatisfied and there is anger, apathy could set in. I think that when unrest occurs, some people will not go and vote and this is likely to be reflected in the new voters’ register. With COVID-19 around, when we start and the crowds become a cluster, what shows that more people will not want to risk their lives for voting for a politician? They may not register so that when there is a limited registration in 2021, then they go and register”, he said.
He was however positive that authorities of the NPP will ensure that health protocols such as the wearing of masks and social distancing are observed. “I know they [NPP executives] have issued guidelines and they know how to go about it with masks and social distancing”, he added.
The NPP is set to host their primaries on the 20th of June, 2020. The registration for the new voters’ card follows ten days after the NPP primaries.
By: Alberta Dorcas N D Armah
