Election 2024: Bus Shortages and Security Checks Frustrate Travelers
Election 2024: Bus Shortages and Security Checks Frustrate Travelers
- Many travelers are making their way to their constituencies to cast their ballots but not without transportation hindrance
- Reports indicate that many of the buses at the station have been hired by Members of Parliament and political figures to transport their supporters
- Another voter, who typically only returns home during Christmas, had made the trip early this year to cast his vote in the elections.
Many travelers are making their way to their constituencies to cast their ballots but not without transportation hindrance.
The holiday rush has compounded the issue, leading to overcrowded bus terminals nationwide. However, the situation has been particularly difficult at certain stations.
In the Western Region, the Takoradi GPRTU Station has been a hotbed of frustration, with travelers expressing anger over what they view as unfair treatment. Some passengers, who arrived at the station as early as 5 a.m., have yet to board a bus.
Reports indicate that many of the buses at the station have been hired by Members of Parliament and political figures to transport their supporters to various destinations for the elections.
This has led to a scramble for the limited number of remaining vehicles, causing chaos and tension among stranded passengers.
A similar situation unfolded in Tamale earlier this morning, where political actors rented out the scarce buses at terminals to transport voters. As a result, only a few vehicles were left for the general public, creating major inconvenience and leading to scuffles at the terminals.
The cause of delays was different in the Upper East Region, where security measures in Bawku have been heightened.
Travelers are being subjected to rigorous checks before being escorted into the town, which has been marked as a potential flashpoint due to its volatile nature. Authorities are taking no chances, deploying additional personnel and enforcing strict protocols to ensure safety and maintain peace.
In Accra, the Kwame Nkrumah Circle bus terminals are bustling with activity as voters navigate packed queues and tight schedules to reach their hometowns.
One traveler shared that he was heading back to Kumasi specifically to vote, explaining that this was the main reason for his visit to the Circle bus station.
Another voter, who typically only returns home during Christmas, had made the trip early this year to cast his vote in the elections.
As the election day approaches, many are facing the twin challenges of crowded transport hubs and stringent security measures, all while trying to ensure they can vote in their constituencies.
