We are just over a year and some months away from the 2020 general elections, which is expected to be keenly contested.

From all indications, both the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) are already anticipating the 2020 polls.

However, one area the Electoral Commission (EC) is likely to have challenges with is the turnout of voters.

For the first time since the Fourth Republic began, Ghana risks seeing one of its lowest turnouts in terms on elections.

And, if care is not taken, and the right measures put in place, the 2020 election could witness voter apathy.

Below are four reasons why Ghanaians may not turn out to vote during the 2020 polls:

1. Fear of violence

The recent violence that rocked the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election could cause many Ghanaians not to turn out to vote in 2020.

As many as seven people reportedly sustained various injuries due to the violence unleashed by supposed security operatives.

Many may want to exercise their voting rights, but as it stands some would rather remain indoors for fear of any violence happening during the next elections.

The Ayawaso by-election itself witnessed a very low turnout and that gives all of us a fair idea of what is to happen in 2020 if things are not resolved quickly.

2. People have lost hope and faith in politicians and politics

Another reason why the 2020 elections could witness a low turnout is the loss of faith by many Ghanaians in politicians.

Many people have grown tired of changing political parties every eight years, yet seeing no major transformation of the country.

Politicians are known to be very cunning, but that has also made citizens and constituents lose hope in them.

They constantly promise, yet fail to deliver. One may just wonder why he or she should vote when it changes nothing.

3. Economic hardship

As stated in the above point, people don't see the need to vote because politicians haven't solved the economic issues of the country.

The main reason why people join long queues to vote for a president and the various Members of Parliament is to see improvement.

However, it the economic situation of the country continues to deteriorate, then there will be no need to vote anymore.

Just look at how the cedi to dollar rate continues to destabilize businesses and you’d realize why many importers see no reason to vote.

4. Ghanaians don't have a better alternative apart from the NPP/NDC

Currently, the two main political parties in contention are the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and National Democratic Congress (NDC).

These two parties have ruled the country since 1992, but unfortunately Ghanaians have no third option to fall on.

It is no secret that many Ghanaians have grown tired of the NPP and NDC and want an alternative.

But currently there is no alternative and that might force people not to turn up at all to vote.