
NDC Condemns Vote-Buying in Ayawaso East Primaries, Launches Investigation
Introduction
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has taken decisive action following allegations of vote-buying during its parliamentary primaries in the Ayawaso East Constituency. The party has publicly condemned these incidents and launched a comprehensive investigation into the alleged misconduct. This development highlights the ongoing challenges political parties face in maintaining electoral integrity during internal elections.
Key Points
- The NDC has condemned reported incidents of bribery and vote-buying during Ayawaso East parliamentary primaries
- A full-scale investigation has been launched with immediate effect
- The party has threatened swift disciplinary action against any culpable candidates
- Reports allege that candidate Baba Jamal distributed 32-inch television sets to delegates
- The party warns of potential election cancellation in areas where inducement is proven
- General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey signed the official statement
Background
The Ayawaso East Constituency parliamentary primaries became contentious when reports emerged of candidates allegedly engaging in vote-buying practices. According to sources, some aspirants reportedly distributed various inducements to delegates ahead of the internal elections. These allegations prompted swift action from the NDC’s National Secretariat, which issued an official statement on February 7, 2026, condemning the reported misconduct.
Analysis
The NDC’s response to these allegations demonstrates the party’s commitment to maintaining democratic principles within its internal processes. Vote-buying in political primaries undermines the integrity of the electoral system and compromises the quality of representation that party members receive. By launching an immediate investigation and threatening disciplinary action, the NDC sends a clear message that such practices will not be tolerated.
The specific allegation against Baba Jamal, involving the distribution of 32-inch television sets to delegates, represents a serious breach of electoral ethics. Such practices create an uneven playing field where candidates with financial resources can potentially influence election outcomes through material inducements rather than through merit and policy positions.
Practical Advice
For political parties facing similar challenges, several key lessons can be drawn from the NDC’s handling of this situation:
1. Establish clear anti-corruption policies for internal elections
2. Implement robust monitoring mechanisms during primaries
3. Create transparent reporting channels for whistleblowing
4. Ensure swift and consistent enforcement of party rules
5. Educate party members about the importance of electoral integrity
FAQ
**Q: What specific actions did the NDC take following the allegations?**
A: The NDC launched a full-scale investigation, condemned the actions publicly, and threatened disciplinary action against any candidates found guilty of vote-buying.
**Q: Who is accused of vote-buying in the Ayawaso East primaries?**
A: Candidate Baba Jamal has been specifically named in reports alleging he distributed 32-inch television sets to delegates.
**Q: What are the potential consequences for candidates found guilty of vote-buying?**
A: The NDC has stated that guilty candidates will face swift disciplinary action, and in severe cases, elections may be canceled where evidence of inducement is established.
**Q: When did these events occur?**
A: The allegations surfaced during the NDC’s parliamentary primaries in Ayawaso East Constituency, with the party’s official response issued on February 7, 2026.
Conclusion
The NDC’s decisive response to allegations of vote-buying in the Ayawaso East primaries demonstrates the party’s commitment to electoral integrity and democratic principles. By launching an immediate investigation and threatening strict disciplinary measures, the NDC sets an important precedent for maintaining ethical standards in political processes. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring fair and transparent elections, even within political parties themselves.
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