Full Breakdown
Allegations of Vote Buying Shake NDC Ayawaso East Primaries
2/8/2026, 8:29:20 PM
High Commissioner Recall Amid Vote Buying Allegations
Ghana's President John Dramani 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, who contested for the Ayawaso East constituency seat, reportedly won the primaries with 431 votes, narrowly defeating Amina Adams, who received 399 votes. The recall was prompted by claims that Jamal's campaign team distributed items such as 32-inch television sets, motorbikes, and cash to voters, raising concerns about electoral integrity.
Context of the Allegations
The allegations of vote buying have drawn significant attention, particularly as Baba Jamal is the only serving public officer implicated among multiple candidates accused of similar practices. The NDC has condemned these actions, with General Secretary Fiifi Kwetey stating that the party is aware of widespread vote buying and has initiated investigations. The party has warned that any candidates found guilty could face severe sanctions, including the cancellation of elections.
Investigations by the Office of the Special Prosecutor
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has launched investigations into the alleged vote buying during the NDC primaries, as well as similar allegations related to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primaries held on January 31, 2026. The OSP's inquiry includes claims that Baba Jamal instigated an assault on an OSP officer who was attempting to serve him with an investigative directive concerning the vote buying allegations. The OSP has emphasized that engaging in vote buying, vote selling, and related corrupt practices is a serious offense under Ghanaian law.
Official Responses and Future Implications
In a statement, President Mahama highlighted the need to preserve the integrity of public office and avoid any perception of impropriety. The NDC has also set up a committee to investigate the allegations further, indicating a commitment to uphold the party's values and principles. The Majority Caucus in Parliament has called for the annulment of the Ayawaso East primary, urging that any candidates found to have engaged in unethical conduct should be barred from future participation.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics have voiced concerns over the implications of these allegations on the NDC's credibility and the broader political landscape in Ghana. The call for annulment by the Majority Caucus reflects a growing demand for accountability and transparency within party processes, especially as the country approaches the general elections scheduled for later in 2026.
What's Next
The investigations by the OSP are ongoing, and the NDC's internal committee is expected to report its findings in due course. The electoral commission has set a timeline for the upcoming Ayawaso East by-election, scheduled for March 3, 2026, following the death of the previous Member of Parliament, Naser Toure. The outcome of these investigations could significantly impact the NDC's strategy and candidate selection in the lead-up to the elections.
