Full Breakdown
Allegations of Vote-Buying Prompt Recall of Ghana's High Commissioner to Nigeria
2/8/2026, 9:25:05 AM
Core Event: Recall of Baba Jamal Amid Vote-Buying Allegations
Ghana's President John Mahama has ordered the immediate recall of Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed from his position as High Commissioner to Nigeria due to allegations of vote-buying during the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primaries held on February 7, 2026. Baba Jamal won the primary for the Ayawaso East constituency, securing 431 votes against his closest rival, Hajia Amina Adam, who received 399 votes. The election was marred by reports of inducement, including claims that delegates were offered gifts such as television sets, motorbikes, and cash in exchange for their votes.
Official Statements & Responses
In a statement from the presidency, it was emphasized that while multiple candidates faced allegations of vote-buying, Baba Jamal was the only serving public official implicated. The statement, signed by spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, indicated that the president took the allegations seriously to preserve the integrity of public office. The NDC also condemned the reported acts of bribery, describing them as a violation of the party's core values and principles. General Secretary Fifi Kwetey announced that the party has initiated a full investigation into the matter and warned that candidates found guilty could face severe sanctions, including the potential cancellation of future elections.
Criticism & Opposition
Baba Jamal defended his actions, asserting that the gifts distributed 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." However, critics argue that such practices undermine the electoral process and the integrity of the NDC's values. The party's leadership has expressed a commitment to addressing these issues decisively to maintain public trust.
Background & Context: The Ayawaso East Primaries
The Ayawaso East primaries were conducted to select a candidate for an upcoming by-election following the death of the sitting Member of Parliament, Naser Toure. The election attracted significant attention, with over 1,100 accredited delegates participating. The controversy surrounding the primary has raised concerns about the electoral integrity within the NDC, a party that is currently promoting a "reset" agenda aimed at restoring public confidence.
What's Next: Investigations and Future Implications
The NDC has committed to a thorough investigation into the allegations of vote-buying, with the potential for swift action against any candidates found culpable. The party has warned that future incidents of inducement could lead to stricter measures, including the cancellation of elections. The Ayawaso East by-election is scheduled for March 3, 2025, and the outcome of the investigations may significantly impact the party's strategy and public perception leading up to this critical vote.
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
- “The party vehemently condemns these actions in no uncertain terms as they represent an affront to the values and principles of the party,” the statement said.” — Fifi Fiavi 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,” — Mohammed Baba Jamal, High Commissioner to Nigeria
