ACCRA, Ghana — Ghana’s President John Mahama has recalled the country’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Baba Jamal, following allegations of vote-buying during the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primary in the Ayawaso East constituency.
The presidency said the decision was taken to protect the integrity of public office, noting that Jamal was the only serving government official among the candidates accused of electoral inducement.
“The president considers it necessary that the matter be addressed without any perception of abuse of office or undue influence,” a statement from the presidency said.
Local media reports alleged that items including television sets and food were distributed to delegates during the primary. Jamal has denied the accusations, describing them as unfounded.
“I have not engaged in any form of vote-buying,” Jamal said, adding that he would “fully cooperate with any investigations” to clear his name.
The NDC has since announced an internal probe into the alleged irregularities, as the party seeks to contain fallout from the controversy ahead of future elections.
Party officials said the investigation would be thorough and transparent, stressing that the NDC maintains a zero-tolerance policy for electoral malpractice.
