The National Democratic Congress has upheld Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed as its parliamentary candidate for the Ayawaso East by-election after an internal investigative committee cleared him of disqualifying wrongdoing over vote-buying allegations.
The decision follows a probe by a three-member committee set up by the party to examine claims that inducements were offered to delegates during the Ayawaso East parliamentary primary held on Saturday, February 7.
In its findings, the committee reviewed petitions from delegates and party members, assessed available evidence, and consulted relevant stakeholders. Although it acknowledged broader concerns about monetisation in internal party contests, it concluded there were no sufficient grounds to disqualify Baba Jamal from contesting the by-election.
The allegations centered on reports that television sets and cash were distributed to some delegates during the primary, triggering controversy and debate about the integrity of the process. Baba Jamal, who won the primary, has consistently denied any vote-buying, maintaining that his campaign complied with party rules and guidelines.
With the committee’s clearance, Baba Jamal is expected to file his nomination with the Electoral Commission on Wednesday, February 11.
The Ayawaso East parliamentary seat became vacant following the death of the sitting Member of Parliament, Naser Toure Mahama, leading to the upcoming by-election. The NDC is expected to formally brief the public on the committee’s report as campaign activities gather momentum.