Full Breakdown
Ghana's High Commissioner to Nigeria Recalled Amid Vote-Buying Allegations
2/8/2026, 3:39:00 AM
Allegations of Vote Inducement
Ghana's President John Mahama has ordered the immediate recall of Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed from his position as High Commissioner to Nigeria following allegations of vote-buying during the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primaries for the Ayawaso East Constituency. The primaries, held on February 7, 2026, saw Baba Jamal emerge victorious with 431 votes, narrowly defeating Hajia Amina Adam, who received 399 votes. Reports indicate that some voters were allegedly induced with gifts, including television sets, motorbikes, and cash, to secure their votes for Jamal.
Context and Response
The allegations of voter inducement have prompted significant scrutiny, particularly as Baba Jamal is the only serving public officer among the candidates involved. In a statement from the presidency, it was emphasized that the decision to recall Jamal was necessary to maintain the integrity of public office and avoid any perception of impropriety. The statement, signed by spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, noted that while multiple candidates faced allegations, Jamal's status as a public official necessitated immediate action.
The NDC has condemned the practice of vote-buying, with General Secretary Fiifi Kwetey stating that the party is aware of widespread incidents of inducement and has initiated investigations. Kwetey warned that any candidates found guilty could face severe penalties, including the cancellation of elections in future cases.
Baba Jamal's Defense
In response to the allegations, Baba Jamal defended his actions, asserting that the gifts were not intended to influence votes but were part of his customary practice of giving to constituents. He stated, "If you give television sets to people, what is wrong? This is the first time I am giving things to people." Jamal maintained that accepting gifts does not equate to allowing them to influence voting decisions.
Implications and Next Steps
The recall of Baba Jamal is set against the backdrop of an upcoming by-election scheduled for March 3, 2025, following the death of the previous Member of Parliament, Naser Toure. The NDC aims to retain the Ayawaso East seat, and Jamal's victory in the primaries positions him as a key candidate for the party. However, the ongoing investigations into the vote-buying allegations could impact the party's strategy and public perception leading into the by-election.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics have raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement against vote-buying practices. The NDC's commitment to investigating these allegations and applying sanctions where necessary has been viewed as a crucial step in restoring public trust in the party's electoral processes.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The President noted that, while the allegations of vote buying were made against multiple candidates who contested the primary, Baba Jamal was the only serving public officer among them,” — Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson for the Presidency
- “General secretary of di party Fiifi Kwetey tok inside dia party statement say, "di party dey aware say vote-buying hapun well well for di primaries for Ayawaso East constituency.” — Fiifi Kwetey, General Secretary of the NDC
- “So if you give television sets to people, what is wrong, when you give things to people? This is the first time I am giving things to people,” — Baba Jamal, Ghana's High Commissioner to Nigeria
The unfolding situation highlights the complexities of electoral integrity in Ghana and the implications of public officials engaging in practices perceived as unethical.
