OSP launches probe into NPP, NDC primaries over alleged vote-buying

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has launched investigations into alleged electoral corruption during the recent presidential and parliamentary primaries organised by Ghana’s two main political parties.

In a statement dated February 8, 2026, the OSP confirmed that it commenced investigations into the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primaries conducted on January 31, 2026, focusing on allegations of vote buying, vote selling, and the sources of funds used in the alleged acts.

The anti-graft body further disclosed that it began a real-time investigation on February 7, 2026, into the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primaries held in the Ayawaso East Constituency, following similar allegations of electoral inducement.

According to the OSP, the scope of the investigations covers claims of vote buying, vote selling, and the financing of alleged corrupt practices linked to the conduct of the elections.

The statement also revealed a serious incident that occurred during the Ayawaso East primary. The OSP alleged that one of the candidates, Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed, abetted thugs to physically attack an officer of the OSP, who was serving him with an investigative directive in relation to alleged vote buying and vote selling.

As a result, the OSP said it has opened an additional investigation into the alleged assault of an authorised officer in the lawful performance of his duties, in connection with Mr Baba Jamal.

“The law prohibits corrupt acts in relation to public elections,” the OSP stressed, warning that vote buying, vote selling, intimidation, threats of violence, and acts of violence constitute serious criminal offences under Ghanaian law.

The Office has urged the public and political actors to take note of the legal consequences associated with electoral corruption as investigations continue.