The just ended parliamentary primary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Ayawaso East Constituency has produced dramatic and unexpected outcomes, including a disappointing performance by a former key party executive.
The primary election was held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, as the NDC moved to elect a parliamentary candidate ahead of the by-election scheduled for March 3, 2026. The by-election became necessary following the death of the sitting Member of Parliament, Naser Toure Mahama, who passed away in January after a short illness.
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According to provisional results, Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Baba Jamal Mohammed Ahmed, emerged winner of the keenly contested race after securing 431 votes. He narrowly defeated Hajia Amina Adam, widow of the late MP, who polled 399 votes.
The contest also drew significant attention due to the performance of the former Ayawaso East NDC Constituency Chairman, Mohammed Ramne, who resigned from his position to contest the primaries. Despite his previous leadership role within the party’s constituency structure, he finished third in the race, securing 88 votes.
Another aspirant, Najib Mohammed Sani, polled only one vote, recording the lowest tally in the contest.
The primary generated considerable political interest and heightened activity across the constituency, which is widely regarded as a stronghold of the NDC. Delegates from various electoral areas participated in the exercise, reflecting the intense competition that characterized the internal party election.
Meanwhile, reports circulating after the election suggest that the contest may have been influenced by alleged inducements. Some observers and party insiders claim that certain delegates were offered items such as 32-inch television sets, cash, and other material incentives. However, these allegations remain unverified, and no official complaint or confirmation has been issued by party authorities or election officials.
Political analysts note that allegations of vote inducement often surface in highly competitive internal party elections and stress the need for thorough investigations through appropriate party and regulatory channels to ensure transparency and maintain the integrity of internal democratic processes.
With his victory, Baba Jamal Mohammed Ahmed is expected to lead the NDC into the upcoming by-election, where he will face candidates from other political parties in a contest considered crucial for maintaining the party’s dominance in the constituency.
Observers say the outcome underscores the intensity of grassroots political competition and highlights the importance of effective delegate engagement and campaign strategy in internal party elections.
