OSP Probes Vote Buying Allegations in NDC Primaries, Assault Case Emerges in Ayawaso East
Goku Justice - 8th February 2026
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has launched investigations into alleged vote buying and vote selling during recent internal elections organised by Ghana’s two main political parties, raising fresh concerns about the integrity of party primaries.
In a public notice issued on Sunday, February 8, 2026, the OSP confirmed that its investigations cover the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primary held on January 31, 2026, as well as the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primary conducted in Ayawaso East on Saturday, February 7, 2026.
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According to the OSP, the probe focuses on allegations of voter inducement, the alleged exchange of money for votes, and the sources of funding behind the suspected corrupt practices during both exercises.
The situation took a more serious turn during the NDC parliamentary primary in Ayawaso East when an officer of the OSP was allegedly assaulted while on official duty. The officer, who had been deployed to monitor the process, was reportedly attacked when he attempted to serve an investigative notice on Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed, one of the candidates in the race.
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The OSP alleges that Baba Jamal, who eventually won the primary, aided and abetted individuals described as thugs to physically attack the officer. As a result, the Office says it has opened a separate investigation into the alleged assault of an authorised officer in the performance of his duties.
“The investigations relate to allegations of vote buying, vote selling, and the sources of funding of the alleged corrupt acts,” the OSP stated.
The Ayawaso East primary has since attracted national attention following reports of voter inducement and violence. Baba Jamal won the contest with 431 votes, narrowly beating Hajia Amina Adam, who secured 399 votes. Mohammed Ramne polled 88 votes, Dr Yakubu Azimdow obtained 45 votes, while Najib Sani received one vote.
In response to the controversy, President John Dramani Mahama has recalled Baba Jamal from his position as Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, citing the need to protect the integrity of public office while investigations continue.
The NDC has also set up a three-member committee to probe the allegations. The committee is chaired by former Information Minister, Kofi Totobi Quakyi, with Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga and legal practitioner Emefa Fugah as members.
NDC General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, has condemned the incidents, describing them as an affront to the values and principles of the party.
The unfolding developments have sparked public concern, especially as the country inches closer to future national elections, with many calling for stronger enforcement of electoral laws to safeguard Ghana’s democracy.
