NDC probe vindicates Baba Jamal ahead of Ayawaso East by-election

Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed has been cleared by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) of allegations of vote buying and will remain the party’s parliamentary candidate for the Ayawaso East by-election.

The decision follows the findings of a three-member investigative committee established by the party to probe claims of inducement during the NDC’s parliamentary primary held on Saturday, February 7.

The committee was set up after reports surfaced alleging that television sets and cash were distributed to delegates during the primary, raising concerns about the integrity of the internal electoral process.

In its report, the committee said it reviewed petitions from delegates and party members, examined available evidence, and engaged relevant stakeholders before arriving at its conclusions.

While acknowledging growing concerns about monetisation in internal party elections, the committee found no basis to disqualify Baba Jamal from contesting the by-election.

Baba Jamal, who emerged winner of the primary, has consistently denied the allegations, insisting his campaign was conducted in line with the party’s rules and guidelines.

He is expected to file his nomination with the Electoral Commission on Wednesday, February 11, as the party prepares for the polls.

The Ayawaso East seat became vacant following the death of the sitting Member of Parliament, Naser Toure Mahama, necessitating the by-election.

The NDC is expected to formally communicate the outcome of the committee’s work to the public as it steps up campaign activities ahead of the election.

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