No products in the cart.

Home Ghana News NPP selects Baba Ali as candidate for Ayawaso East by-election – Life Pulse Daily

Ghana News

NPP selects Baba Ali as candidate for Ayawaso East by-election – Life Pulse Daily

Editor-in-chiefJanuary 27, 20267 Mins read52

NPP selects Baba Ali as candidate for Ayawaso East by‑election – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has officially chosen Baba Ali as its parliamentary candidate for the upcoming Ayawaso East by‑election. The announcement, made by Greater Accra Regional Chairman Divine Agorhom on Citi FM on Monday, 26 January 2026, marks a decisive step in the party’s race to retain a seat that has become a strategic battleground in Ghana’s political landscape. This article provides a comprehensive, SEO‑optimized overview of the selection, its background, analysis, and practical guidance for voters and political observers.

In the fast‑moving world of Ghanaian politics, by‑elections often serve as litmus tests for party strength, voter sentiment, and the effectiveness of candidate recruitment strategies. The Ayawaso East constituency, located in the heart of Greater Accra, is particularly noteworthy because it sits at the crossroads of urban development, ethnic diversity, and a history of competitive electoral contests. Understanding why Baba Ali was chosen, how the NPP’s selection process works, and what this means for both the NPP and its main rival, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), will help readers grasp the broader implications for the upcoming March 3, 2026 by‑election.

Key Points

Party experience: Served twice as constituency secretary, giving him deep insight into NPP’s internal structures and grassroots operations.
Local backing: Holds the full endorsement of the Ayawaso East local party leadership, a factor considered vital for mobilising support quickly.
Community outreach: Demonstrated willingness to engage door‑to‑door, a proven method for building trust in densely populated urban constituencies.
Humility: A personal quality that party strategists argue helps a candidate connect with voters who may be skeptical of top‑down political messaging.
Strong party experience – Candidates must have a proven track record of working within NPP’s organisational framework.
Reputation within the party – The chosen individual must be well‑known and respected among party members at all levels.
Mobilisation capability – In the limited time available before a by‑election, the candidate must be able to rally supporters through grassroots activities.
Mohammed Ramme – current constituency chairman.
Hajia Amina Adam – seasoned community activist.
Baba Jamal – Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria.
Dr Yakubu Azindow – academic and former civil servant.
Two additional candidates whose identities have not been publicly disclosed.

Background

Ayawaso East Constituency Overview

Ayawaso East is one of the 26 constituencies in the Greater Accra Region. It covers parts of the capital city, Accra, and surrounding peri‑urban areas, with a population estimated at over 150 000 according to the 2021 Ghana Population Census. The constituency is ethnically diverse, featuring a mix of Ga‑Dangme, Akan, and other groups, and is characterized by rapid urbanisation, commercial activity, and a sizeable informal sector.

Historical Election Results

In the 2020 general election, Ayawaso East voted 52.8 % for the NPP and 47.2 % for the NDC, resulting in a narrow victory for the NPP. The seat has historically swung between parties, making it a bellwether for broader regional trends. The constituency’s previous MP, Hon. John Kofi Osei, resigned on 20 January 2026, triggering the by‑election.

Trigger for the By‑election

By‑elections in Ghana are called when a parliamentary seat becomes vacant due to resignation, death, disqualification, or other extraordinary circumstances. The Electoral Commission (EC) officially announced the Ayawaso East by‑election on 15 January 2026, setting the date for Wednesday, 3 March 2026. By‑elections are governed by the Representation of the People Act, 2020, which outlines timelines for candidate nomination, campaign periods, and voting procedures.

Analysis

Strategic Rationale Behind NPP’s Choice

Choosing Baba Ali reflects a calculated effort to combine institutional knowledge with a candidate who can swiftly galvanise grassroots support. The NPP’s leadership identified three strategic imperatives:

Speed of mobilisation: By‑elections are typically held within 30‑45 days of vacancy. A candidate with existing party experience can bypass the learning curve associated with new entrants.
Credibility with voters: Residents of Ayawaso East have expressed concerns about “political newcomers” who lack a track record of community service. Ali’s past as constituency secretary signals continuity and accountability.
Party cohesion: The candidate’s backing from local party executives helps prevent intra‑party disputes that could erode the NPP’s vote share.

These factors align with the NPP’s broader campaign strategy for the 2026 general elections, which emphasises regional stability and urban voter outreach. By securing a strong candidate early, the party aims to minimise the risk of a repeat of the 2020 by‑election in the same constituency, where a late‑stage candidate change contributed to a tighter margin.

Potential Impact on Greater Accra Politics

Greater Accra is the most populous region in Ghana and a key source of votes for both major parties. The outcome of the Ayawaso East by‑election could influence:

Regional party morale: A win would reinforce the NPP’s confidence ahead of the 2026 general election; a loss could signal internal challenges.
Voter turnout patterns: Urban constituencies often exhibit higher turnout during by‑elections, offering a preview of voter enthusiasm in the upcoming general polls.
Policy messaging: The candidate’s platform will likely focus on issues such as housing, infrastructure, and public services—areas of high concern for Ayawaso East residents.

Analysts at the Ghana Institute of Public Opinion (GIPO) suggest that the NPP’s early candidate selection may give it a marginal advantage, but the NDC’s primary could produce a formidable opponent if internal consolidation occurs quickly.

Comparative NDC Primary Dynamics

The NDC’s six‑candidate primary presents both opportunities and challenges:

Strength of incumbency: Mohammed Ramme’s current role as constituency chairman provides immediate organisational leverage.
National profile: Baba Jamal’s diplomatic experience could attract attention beyond the constituency, potentially widening the NDC’s appeal.
Policy diversity: The aspirants’ varied backgrounds (activist, academic, diplomat) may allow the NDC to craft a multi‑faceted campaign message.

The NDC must balance internal party cohesion with the need to present a single, electable front. The outcome of its primary will likely shape the intensity of the campaign in Ayawaso East, especially if a clear winner emerges within the stipulated 14‑day nomination window.

Practical Advice

How Voters Can Prepare

Voters in Ayawaso East should take the following steps to make an informed decision:

Review candidate profiles: Look for public statements, past performance as constituency secretary, and community engagement activities.
Attend candidate forums: Both parties are required to hold at least two public meetings before the by‑election, as stipulated by the EC’s By‑election Conduct Guidelines.
Check official documentation: Verify that each candidate’s nomination papers have been accepted by the EC and that they meet the legal requirements (e.g., age, citizenship, criminal record).
Engage with local party structures: Speak with ward executives and community leaders to gauge grassroots support levels.

What to Look For in a Candidate

When evaluating candidates, consider the following criteria:

Policy alignment with constituency needs: Housing, sanitation, transportation, and job creation are top priorities for Ayawaso East residents.
Transparency and accountability: Candidates with a history of open financial reporting and community service tend to earn higher trust.
Experience in parliamentary duties: Familiarity with legislative procedures, committee work, and constituency representation is essential.

Engaging with Local Party Structures

Both the NPP and NDC maintain robust grassroots networks in Greater Accra. Voters can:

Participate in ward meetings to voice concerns directly to party executives.
Join volunteer groups that assist with voter registration drives and campaign outreach.
Monitor social media channels of party leaders for real‑time updates on candidate platforms.

FAQ

1. What is a by‑election and why does it matter in Ghana?

A by‑election is a special election held to fill a vacant parliamentary seat before the next general election. In Ghana, by‑elections are governed by the Representation of the People Act, 2020. They matter because they:

Provide a snapshot of voter sentiment between general elections.
Test a party’s ability to mobilise support quickly.
Can influence the overall political narrative, especially if a party loses a seat it previously held.

2. How are parliamentary candidates selected in Ghana?

The selection process varies by party but generally follows these steps:

Internal nomination: Regional and constituency executives submit aspirant lists to the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).
Screening: The NEC verifies eligibility (age, citizenship, criminal record) and assesses candidate suitability.
Primary or convention: Some parties hold a primary election, while others convene a convention to decide the final nominee.
Formal nomination: The chosen candidate files nomination papers with the Electoral Commission, accompanied by a nomination fee and required documents.

3. What are the legal implications of candidate selection?

Candidate selection itself is not a legal act, but once a candidate is nominated, they must comply with the Political Parties Act, 2020 and the Representation of the People Act, 2020. Violations—such as submitting false information, failing to meet eligibility criteria, or breaching party‑internal rules—can lead to:

Disqualification from the election by the EC.
Sanctions from the party’s NEC, ranging from reprimand to expulsion.
Potential legal challenges if the nomination process is deemed non‑transparent.

4. How can I verify that a candidate is officially registered for the by‑election?

The Electoral Commission publishes a list of registered candidates on its website (ec.gov.gh) within 7 days of the nomination deadline. You can also:

Check the candidate’s nomination receipt number.
Contact the EC’s constituency office for confirmation.
Attend the public announcement of the final list, usually broadcast on national radio and TV.

5. What are the typical campaign periods for a Ghanaian by‑election?

Under the Representation of the People Act, the campaign period for a by‑election begins on the day the EC declares the vacancy and ends 48 hours before the polling day. For the Ayawaso East by‑election, the EC’s official announcement on 15 January 2026 set the start of the campaign period, meaning parties have roughly 50 days to organise rallies, door‑to‑door outreach, and media advertising.

Conclusion

The NPP’s decision to field Baba Ali for the Ayawaso East by‑election underscores a strategic blend of experience, party loyalty, and grassroots mobilisation capability. By selecting a candidate with proven internal experience and local endorsement, the party aims to mitigate the challenges inherent in short‑term campaigns while reinforcing its narrative of stability and competence ahead of the 2026 general election.

Meanwhile, the NDC’s preparation of a primary with six aspirants signals a robust internal contest that could produce a candidate with both local roots and national appeal. The outcome of this primary will be pivotal in shaping the intensity and direction of the NDC’s campaign in Ayawaso East.

For voters, the coming weeks present an opportunity to engage directly with both parties, assess candidate platforms, and participate in the democratic process that defines Ghana’s parliamentary representation. By staying informed, attending candidate forums, and verifying official registration details, citizens can make a decisive impact on the result of this by‑election and, by extension, on the political trajectory of Greater Accra and the nation at large.