Member of Parliament for Abetifi Constituency and Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to make provisions for Seventh Day Adventist Church (SDA) members to vote on special voting days alongside security agencies.
In a post on social media, Mr Acheampong highlighted the issue, pointing out that the approximately 800,000 SDA members in Ghana are currently unable to vote due to their religious beliefs, which prohibit them from engaging in any activities, including voting, on Saturdays.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring that all eligible citizens, regardless of their religious affiliations, have the opportunity to exercise their democratic right to vote.
Earlier this year, the Adventist Church proposed that election day be held on a Tuesday in November, to allow all Ghanaians, regardless of their religious beliefs, to participate in the democratic process without compromising their religious observances.
The EC has indicated that it will consider the proposal, and the Seventh-day Adventist Church has expressed gratitude for the Commission’s willingness to engage in dialogue on the matter.
The church reaffirmed its commitment to working with all stakeholders to promote a democratic process that respects the religious diversity in Ghana.
This call by Bryan Acheampong highlights the need for inclusivity in the electoral process and the importance of accommodating the religious beliefs of all citizens.
