The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced that Mohammed Baba Jamal will remain its Parliamentary candidate for the upcoming Ayawaso East by-election, despite allegations of vote buying that surfaced during the party’s primary held on Saturday, February 7.
This decision follows a report submitted by a three-member committee established by the party to investigate the allegations. The committee was formed amid widespread concerns that some aspirants engaged in inducement during the primary, with reports indicating that TV sets and cash were allegedly distributed to delegates, raising questions about the integrity of the internal election process.
The investigative body examined complaints submitted by delegates and party members, reviewed available evidence, and engaged relevant stakeholders before concluding its findings. While acknowledging issues related to monetization in internal party elections, the committee reportedly found no grounds to disqualify Baba Jamal as the party’s candidate for the upcoming by-election.
Baba Jamal, who emerged victorious in the primary, has denied the allegations of vote buying, insisting that his campaign was conducted within the party’s rules and guidelines.
The Ayawaso East seat became vacant following the death of the former Member of Parliament, Naser Toure Mahama, necessitating the by-election. Baba Jamal is expected to file his nomination with the Electoral Commission on Wednesday, February 11.
The party is expected to officially communicate the committee’s findings to the public as it prepares to intensify campaigning efforts ahead of the by-election.
