President John Dramani Mahama has taken swift executive action, recalling Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed, following a controversial National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primary in Ayawaso East.
Baba Jamal Ahmed Ghana diplomat High Commissioner
The recall, announced late Saturday, stems from accusations of massive voter inducement during the internal election held to find a successor for a recently deceased legislator.
The "Gifts" that Sparked a Storm
The Ayawaso East primary has become the talk of the town after reports surfaced that delegates were allegedly offered 32-inch television sets and boiled eggs to influence their votes.
While Baba Jamal emerged victorious with 431 votes—narrowly defeating Hajia Amina Adam—the victory has been overshadowed by these bribery claims. The Baba Jamal campaign has since defended the items, describing them as "goodwill gestures" rather than bribes, but the explanation has done little to calm the public outcry.
Government and OSP Step In
In a statement from the Presidency, it was noted that as a serving public officer, Baba Jamal is held to a higher standard of conduct. The recall aims to protect the integrity of the government and avoid any perception of a conflict of interest.
Simultaneously, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has officially opened an investigation into the matter. The OSP is not only looking into the "vote-buying" and "vote-selling" claims but is also investigating reports that an OSP officer was assaulted while monitoring the election on the ground.
NDC Internal Investigation
The NDC leadership has also reacted strongly. General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey announced a three-member committee to investigate the reports. The committee includes:
• Kofi Totobi Quakyi (Chairman)
• Mahama Ayariga (MP for Bawku Central)
• Emefa Fugah (Legal Practitioner)
The group is expected to submit a report by Tuesday, February 10, with recommendations for potential sanctions or even an annulment of the results, as suggested by some civil society groups like IMANI Africa.