Split-ticket voting behaviour and socio-economic development in Ghana. A case of Agona East Constituency 2008-2020.

Abstract

Ghana’s general elections over the years have been competitive and characterized by various patterns of voting behaviour. One notable voting behaviour among them is split ticket voting behaviour. This study set out to identify what accounts for the split-ticket voting behaviour in the Agona East constituency and its implications on socio economic development of the area. The study employed the sociological model and rational choice theory to help explain the data from the field. Voters and key informants were sampled for the study. Concurrent Mixed Methods approach was employed to collect and analyze data from the field. The study found that while the distribution of valuable items and other gifts do not influence split-ticket voters’ decisions, campaign messages and performance of ruling governments play significant role in voters’ intention to opt for split-ticket voting. It was also established that split-ticket voting behaviour breeds hostility between the DCE and the Opposition Member of Parliament in the constituency and this hinders smooth implementation of laudable socio-economic development plans in the area. The study therefore recommends that politicians must focus on the delivery of their campaign promises to attract the votes from the split ticket voters in the constituency. It also recommends that in order to promote peaceful working relationship between DCE and Opposition Member of Parliament, the DCEs must be elected by the people to ensure the promotion of socio-economic development in areas where voters engage in split-ticket voting behaviour.