Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, the MCE claimed the alleged actions stem from dissatisfaction over her appointment, insisting that Madam Huze had wanted her brother to be named MCE instead.

“It is all because she wanted her brother to be MCE but he wasn’t appointed, so she has vowed to use every means possible to frustrate me until I leave office,” she alleged.

Madam Asante further accused Madam Huze of repeatedly undermining her authority and inciting party members against her.

“She has been to my office to insult and harass me, vowing to lead a demonstration against me because they say they don’t want me,” she said.

According to the MCE, the situation has escalated into what she describes as deliberate attempts to destabilise the local administration, including calls for the removal of key officials.

“She will be inciting people against me, demanding the removal of the Presiding Member and the Coordinating Director,” she claimed.

She also cited an incident in which rubbish was allegedly dumped in the middle of a road in Ejisu, an act she believes was politically motivated to tarnish her image.

“They called me out and even attached President John Dramani Mahama’s name, saying sanitation in Ejisu is bad. I ensured those involved were arrested, yet the same people accuse me of giving the party a bad name,” she stated.

The MCE further alleged misconduct relating to the handling of state resources, questioning attempts to take over facilities without due process.

“If you need a warehouse, I can help you get one. But you don’t take the law into your own hands. What is my crime in protecting state properties?” she asked.

She also rejected claims that she was behind the destruction that occurred during a recent invasion of her office. “You invade my office, destroy property, and then turn around to accuse me of doing it myself,” she said.

Despite the tensions, Madam Asante called for calm among party supporters, urging patience and unity. “The government cannot give all of us what we want at the same time,” she noted.

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In an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Madam Asante identified her alleged attackers as the Ashanti Regional NDC Women’s Organiser, Gloria Huze, the Ejisu Constituency Chairman, the Organiser, and the Youth Organiser.

The MCE claimed the four individuals attacked her unprovoked on Monday, April 27, 2026, over an alleged warehouse break-in involving party executives.

“These constituency executives were the same people who led the youth to lock down the NHIA office. They all wanted the MCE position and didn’t get it, so they have vowed to frustrate me. They have leased out some lands to people and were even summoned to the palace. Their argument was that the NPP did it while in power and they will also do it,” she claimed.

Madam Asante, while condemning the incident, cautioned against division in the municipality and within the party, stating that this is not the first time an MCE’s efforts have been frustrated.

“It is important for us to reach a consensus with the chiefs because they are the custodians of the and even if they need a parcel of land for something, they have to involve me to ensure calm and order at all levels.

“They always create confusion and cause apathy among party members. They fight every MCE appointed in the area but I have decided not to pay attention to anything they are doing to ensure peace,” she added.

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The victim, identified as Adam Shamuna, sustained an eye injury after he was reportedly assaulted by about 15 individuals believed to be affiliated with the East Mamprusi Municipal Chief Executive (MCE).

The incident is said to have stemmed from a heated exchange on an NDC WhatsApp platform over fertiliser distribution issues.

According to Shamuna, the confrontation was triggered after he allegedly made remarks perceived as insulting toward the MCE during an online discussion.

He admitted making the comments but maintained that they were personal opinions expressed while defending a political figure he supports.

“The MCE’s boys were also insulting Alhaji Baba,” he claimed.

Shamuna is believed to be aligned with former Member of Parliament for Nalerigu/Gambaga and Minister of Climate Change and Sustainability, Alhaji Baba Seidu Issifu.

His alleged attackers are thought to be sympathisers of the current MCE and the North East Regional Minister, Ibrahim Tia.

The incident highlights deepening divisions within the party at the local level, with rival factions trading accusations of sabotage and disloyalty.

Recounting the attack, Shamuna claimed one of the individuals involved was armed with a pistol and threatened to kill him during the assault.

Meanwhile, in a twist following the incident, the MCE has reported Shamuna to the police over the WhatsApp comments.

A formal invitation signed by the Gambaga District Police Commander, ASP Stephen K. Takia, requests Shamuna to assist in investigations into a post he allegedly made on Friday, April 24, 2026, which the police describe as offensive toward the MCE, Mr. Bareche David Bukari.

Shamuna has confirmed receipt of the invitation and says he will honour it, insisting he is prepared to defend his comments.

The police have yet to comment on any arrests connected to the assault, while efforts to reach the MCE for response were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.

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The tour, scheduled for April 27 and 28, 2026, will see the Chairman engage a broad cross-section of party stakeholders, including Members of Parliament, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), constituency and regional executives, former appointees, clergy, traditional authorities, and opinion leaders.

According to the itinerary, the tour will commence on Monday, April 27, in the Talensi Constituency from 10:00 am to 11:30 am. The Chairman will then proceed to Nabdam from 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm, followed by Bongo from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm, and Bolgatanga East from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm.

On Tuesday, April 28, the Chairman is expected to continue the tour in Bolgatanga Central from 10:00 am to 11:30 am, before moving to Builsa North from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm, and concluding the regional engagements in Builsa South from 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm.

The party has directed constituency executive committees to determine suitable venues for the engagements, with a preference for large halls to accommodate participants.

The thank-you tour forms part of efforts by the NDC leadership to engage grassroots supporters and stakeholders following recent political activities, while reinforcing party unity and strengthening its structures at the regional level.

The Chairman is expected to depart the region for Yagaba-Kubori after the engagements.

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Speaking on a Lambussie-based radio station, Mr Asiedu Nketia explained that in the early years of the party, national executives were selected through a consensus-building approach involving select groups.

According to him, these groups would meet to deliberate and recommend candidates for leadership positions, ensuring regional and gender balance.

“There were two groups that would go into conclave and select national executives based on certain formulas, including regional and gender balance,” he said.

He noted that the system was effective during the party’s formative years from 1992 to 2000, as it helped maintain unity and cohesion.

However, he explained that the party later undertook a major reorganisation, which led to the abandonment of that approach in favour of a more open and competitive system.

“The recommendation was that we scrap that method and open the space for people to file and contest,” he stated.

Mr Asiedu Nketia added that subsequent reforms introduced the “one man, one position” policy, which prevents individuals from holding both party and government positions simultaneously.

He said this system has guided the party’s operations for years, particularly up to 2016, and helped ensure clarity in roles and responsibilities.

According to him, the earlier structure also allowed flexibility where party members appointed to government roles could step aside for their deputies to take over party responsibilities.

He indicated that these reforms have shaped the NDC’s internal governance framework and contributed to strengthening its democratic processes over time.

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Speaking on Lambussie Radio during his ongoing Thank You Tour, Mr Asiedu Nketia reflected on his political journey, noting that he served as General Secretary of the party for 17 years before contesting the position of National Chairman.

According to him, at the time he sought to move into a new role, some party members argued that he was best suited for the General Secretary position and warned that the party could collapse if he stepped aside.

“I was told I was best for General Secretary and that if I left, the party would collapse. But how can you compare what you have seen with what you have not seen?” he said.

Mr Asiedu Nketia stressed that such perceptions can hinder growth and deny others the opportunity to contribute to the party’s development.

He indicated that leadership should not be seen as the preserve of a few individuals, adding that new entrants must be given the chance to prove themselves.

“Someone is lacing his boots; you have to give the person a chance,” he stated.

The NDC Chairman also noted that similar arguments are now being made about his current role, with some suggesting he should remain National Chairman indefinitely due to his performance.

However, he questioned the basis of such claims, insisting that leadership potential should not be judged solely on past roles.

“Today people say I am the best chairman and should not leave. Whatever I want to be in future, have you seen that one?” he quizzed.

His comments come amid ongoing internal discussions within the NDC on leadership succession and the need to create opportunities for emerging members within the party.

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Speaking during an interview on Lambussie FM during his Thank You Tour of the Upper West Region, Mr Asiedu Nketia explained that the decision follows internal deliberations aimed at ensuring fairness and efficiency within the party’s structure.

He noted that President John Dramani Mahama has been “magnanimous” in appointing many individuals from the party into government positions, a situation that has created challenges in balancing responsibilities.

According to him, allowing individuals to hold both government and party roles places a heavy workload on them and makes it difficult to achieve quorum during party meetings.

“To address this, we set up a committee to look into the matter, and it became clear that government appointees must step aside if they want to contest for party positions,” he said.

Mr Asiedu Nketia questioned the fairness of one individual occupying multiple roles while other qualified party members remain without opportunities.

“Will it be fair that one person is occupying both party and government positions while there are other competent people who haven’t had any appointments?” he asked.

He added that the directive aligns with the NDC’s social democratic principles, which emphasise inclusivity and equitable distribution of opportunities.

“As a social democratic party that believes in distributive justice, if someone is occupying one position, another person should be given the opportunity to serve in another role,” he stated.

The NDC Chairman also pointed out that the party now has a broad pool of capable and qualified individuals who can contribute effectively if given the chance.

He said the new directive is expected to strengthen internal democracy and improve the efficiency of both party and government operations.

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Speaking during an interview on Lambussie FM during his Thank You Tour of the Upper West Region, Mr Asiedu Nketia said there were widespread doubts about the NDC’s ability to secure victory ahead of the polls.

“The nature of the task going into the 2024 election was so daunting. There were a lot of people who doubted our abilities,” he stated.

According to him, the then-governing New Patriotic Party had mobilised significant support across various sectors of society as part of efforts to retain power.

“They were preaching ‘breaking the eight’, so it was clear they had no intention of leaving power. They wanted to do everything within their means to retain it,” he said.

Mr Asiedu Nketia also pointed out that the existence of a hung Parliament at the time added to the complexity of the political landscape, making the task ahead even more challenging.

He explained that the NDC adopted a strategic approach by dividing its campaign efforts, with a particular focus on parliamentary races.

“We decided to split the campaign, with some focusing on the presidential and my primary focus was on the parliamentary,” he revealed.

The NDC Chairman further suggested that at some point, the NPP appeared to lose momentum in the presidential race when comparisons were drawn between its candidate and John Dramani Mahama.

Despite the challenges, Mr Asiedu Nketia said the party remained determined and embraced the difficulty of the task.

“I like challenges a lot,” he remarked.

“If you follow the path everyone has done, then you are no different,” he added.

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According to Mr. Ibrahim, who doubles as the Member of Parliament for Banda, the NDC has a strong pool of capable leaders being groomed within government.

Speaking on Adom TV’s Badwam, he argued that the current administration is deliberately building a legacy that extends beyond President Mahama’s tenure.

“It is because of the work President Mahama is doing, that is why he wants to leave a legacy, so his party remains in power,” he stated.

He further suggested that President Mahama’s influence is likely to extend beyond Ghana after his tenure in office.

“He will be a continental president; he will go into the highest realm outside Ghana,” he said, suggesting the President could take up a significant international role.

Ahmed Ibrahim pointed to a decline in Ghana’s representation on the global stage, referencing figures such as Kofi Annan and Mohamed Ibn Chambas.

“After Ibn Chambas, Kofi Annan, Alex Kweku (Kwetey) and the rest, we don’t have a lot of Ghanaians at the international front,” he noted, adding, “It is recently that Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey went to the Commonwealth.”

He believes President Mahama could soon join that league of internationally recognised Ghanaian statesmen.

Drawing an analogy, he said: “When we were in school and used to go for interco, you may see someone and think he will be the best jumper, but he ends up disappointing. The real jumpers will cross the mark.”

He insisted that within the current government, there are several individuals capable of stepping up, stressing that the NDC is well-positioned for the future.

“So, choosing Mahama’s successor will not be difficult. The kind of leadership we have at Cabinet and the training he is giving us, we have a pool of people to succeed him,” he stressed.

A recent poll by Global InfoAnalytics showed that NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia continues to lead in what is described as a “top-of-the-mind” baseline assessment of potential candidates.

Asiedu Nketia secured 29% support, followed by Finance Minister and Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam MP Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson with 19%, while Tamale South MP and Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu garnered 11%.

Chief of Staff Julius Debrah and Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang each recorded 8% in the survey.

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According to her, the decision follows months of consultations with political mentors and gender advocates across the country.

Speaking on Dwaso Nsem on Adom FM, Madam Mensah, who currently serves as a Technical Advisor to the Minister of Sports and Recreation, said she is bringing renewed energy and vision to the party’s women’s wing.

“For the past months, I have had extensive consultations about my background, where I hail from, and how firmly I have stood over the years as a gender advocate when it comes to fighting for women’s empowerment and gender equality. Come December 2026, I will be contesting to be elected as the National Women’s Organiser of the NDC. I am fully confident in my candidature based on the consultations I have undertaken so far,” she declared.

The former MP emphasised that her experience and long-standing advocacy for women position her as a strong candidate to lead and mobilise the party’s women’s front.

Meanwhile, the NDC has scheduled its Youth and Women Conference for December 12, 2026, where Youth and Women Organisers will be elected.

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The latest “all voters model” shows Dr Forson climbing from third place at 11% in April 2025 to a commanding 25% in April 2026 — a surge that places him firmly ahead of the field.

His ascent contrasts sharply with the fortunes of former Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, who previously led the race with 24% support but has seen a steep decline to 11%, following a period of illness that appears to have significantly impacted her standing.

Johnson Asiedu Nketia has also gained ground, rising from 9% to 20%, moving into second place. Meanwhile, Haruna Iddrisu, who held the second position a year ago with 17%, has largely stagnated, inching up marginally to 18% and now sits in third place.

Trend data reinforces the scale of Dr Forson’s momentum. After peaking at 19% in July 2025, his support dipped to 14% in October before rebounding sharply — reaching 16% in January 2026 and accelerating to 25% by April 2026. This trajectory marks the most significant upward movement among all contenders.

In contrast, Haruna Iddrisu’s support shows a gradual decline, falling from a high of 23% in July 2025 to 18% in early 2026. Asiedu Nketia, however, demonstrates a steady upward trend, benefiting alongside Dr Forson from shifting voter preferences.

The tour will see him engage party supporters and stakeholders across several constituencies as part of efforts to express appreciation for their support.

According to the schedule, Mr Asiedu Nketia will kick off the tour in the Sissala East Constituency at Wallembelle at 10:00 a.m., before proceeding to Sissala West (Bulu) at 1:00 p.m. and Lambussie (Tapumu) at 4:00 p.m.

On Tuesday, April 21, he will continue to Nandom, Lawra, Jirapa and Nadowli, engaging constituents throughout the day.

The tour will conclude on Wednesday, April 22, with visits to Daffiama Bussie Issa, Wa West, Wa East and Wa Central.

The thank-you tour forms part of the party’s post-election activities aimed at strengthening grassroots support and reconnecting with members across the region.

The directive follows the party’s approval of guidelines for its internal electoral processes, including a detailed timetable covering elections from the branch level to the national stage.

In a statement, Deputy General Secretary in charge of Operations, Mustapha Gbande, indicated that the party has recently concluded a limited registration exercise for new members, along with a dues payment process to validate membership and determine eligibility to contest.

He emphasised that any declaration of intent outside the approved timelines would constitute a breach of the party’s rules and could lead to disqualification if proven.

“I will like to place on the records, that premature declaration of intentions to contest outside the timelines may constitute an activity outside the guidelines and same could be a potent ground for disqualification of an aspirant at any level, particularly constituency, regional and national level, if such evidence is established,” he cautioned.

Mr Gbande added that the party is committed to maintaining a stable political environment and ensuring that its internal elections are conducted in a fair and transparent manner.

The NDC has therefore urged all members to refrain from early campaigning and strictly adhere to the laid-down guidelines.

The facility was reportedly locked and marked with a red bandana, bringing operations to a halt and disrupting access to services for residents.

Speaking to Adom News’ Dormaa-Ahenkro-based affiliate, Gift FM, the NDC Constituency Vice Chairman, Richard Kwasi Asamoah, confirmed the incident and linked it to disagreements over the nomination of a District Manager for the NHIS.

He explained that constituency executives had been asked to propose a candidate for the role, with the Constituency Organizer, Tweneboah Enock, initially put forward and taken through the necessary processes for consideration.

However, the situation reportedly escalated after it emerged that another individual, Awuah Joshua, had been selected instead.

According to him, the development did not sit well with some party youth, who subsequently locked the office in protest.

Mr. Asamoah further alleged that the Member of Parliament, Racheal Owusuaa, influenced the change in nomination, citing concerns about working relations with the initially proposed candidate. He noted that the matter has since been referred to higher party authorities for intervention.

He also suggested that the situation reflects a broader pattern, referencing earlier disputes over appointments, including that of the District Director of NADMO, which he said had similarly generated tension among local party executives.

While condemning the closure of the NHIS office, Mr. Asamoah called for calm and urged party supporters to pursue dialogue instead of confrontation. He warned that unresolved internal disputes could affect party cohesion and commitment ahead of future elections.

He further appealed to regional executives to act swiftly to address such issues, stressing the need for transparency and engagement in decision-making processes.

Despite confirming that some individuals affiliated with the party were involved, he said it remains unclear who led the action. He urged the youth to remain restrained and work towards unity.

The incident has raised concerns about access to healthcare services in the district as efforts continue to restore normal operations.

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The Bono Regional NPP Chairman, Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, and the Sunyani East Communications Officer, Abubakar Yakubu, popularly known as Baba Amando, were arrested by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) on Monday.

Abronye DC was reportedly picked up over alleged threats directed at a judge presiding over a case at the Adentan Circuit Court, while Baba Amando is being investigated in connection with alleged false publication.

Condemning the arrests, NPP National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye alleged that the developments form part of a broader strategy to deflect public attention from governance challenges, including economic and legislative concerns.

However, speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Nukpenu urged the Police to carry out their duties professionally and avoid creating the impression that political actors are behind arrests, stressing that law enforcement remains the sole responsibility of the Police.

“Who arrested them? Was it NDC headquarters or Jubilee House? Is the Police now the NDC headquarters or Jubilee House?” he asked.

Nukpenu cautioned that any failure by the Police to act diligently risks undermining public trust and fuelling unnecessary political tensions.

“If they don’t know their job and make arrests without thorough investigation and create the impression that the NDC is behind it, they have to be careful,” he warned.

He further urged the Police to ensure that arrests are backed by solid evidence and pursued to their logical conclusion, criticising what he described as a growing tendency to blame political actors for the shortcomings of state institutions.

“If they have the basis for an arrest, they should do it diligently. I am tired of the nonsense in this country, that when agencies are not working well, we turn to blame political actors,” he said.

He added that the appointment of the Inspector General of Police does not make the office subservient to the President.

“The fact that the President appoints the Police Chief doesn’t make him a puppet. The IGP and CID should be diligent with their work so we can have peace in this country,” he added.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Nukpenu questioned the significance of the arrest of NPP Bono Regional Chairman, Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, accusing him of neglecting his region and engaging in what he described as unproductive commentary in Accra.

“If Abronye has been arrested, so what? Who is he?” he quizzed. “Someone who has reduced his region to nothing and has moved to Accra just to talk loosely, that’s his business. We don’t have to waste productive hours discussing this,” he stated.

The NDC organiser also downplayed claims that recent arrests were politically motivated, arguing that such sentiments are often driven by individuals he described as lacking direction within their political structures.

“People feeling restricted or gagged is the feeling of unproductive people, those who don’t know what to do with their party and political systems, not the NDC,” he added.

He, however, called on security officials to be transparent about the circumstances surrounding the arrests, describing the situation as unnecessary theatrics.

“CID boss Lydia Donkor and IGP Yohuno should come out and tell us if they carried out the arrest on the orders of someone at the Presidency. This nonsense arrest to show bravado, then they are released and granted bail—what does it achieve?” he questioned.

His comments come amid heightened political tensions following the arrest and bail of Abronye DC and the NPP Sunyani East Communications Officer, Abubakar Yakubu, popularly known as Baba Amando, by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID).

Abronye DC was reportedly picked up by police over alleged threats directed at a judge presiding over a case at the Adentan Circuit Court, while Baba Amando is being investigated in connection with alleged false publication.

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The survey, released by the firm’s Executive Director, Mussa Dankwah, on Monday, April 13, 2026, shows that Johnson Asiedu Nketia continues to lead in what is described as a “top-of-the-mind” baseline assessment of potential candidates.

Despite maintaining the top spot, his advantage appears to be narrowing. The poll reveals that his lead has dropped from 16 percentage points in Week 1 to 10 percentage points in Week 2, indicating growing competition within the party.

In the latest findings, Asiedu Nketia secured 29 percent support. He is followed by Cassiel Ato Forson with 19 percent, while Haruna Iddrisu garnered 11 percent.

Julius Debrah and Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang each recorded 8 percent in the survey.

The poll also highlights a significant portion of undecided voters, with 24 percent of respondents yet to choose a preferred candidate, suggesting that the race remains fluid.

In comparison, Week 1 results had placed Asiedu Nketia at 28 percent, with a larger undecided bloc of 36 percent, while other contenders trailed behind.

The findings suggest that although Asiedu Nketia remains the frontrunner, the gap is narrowing as other aspirants gain ground, amid lingering uncertainty over who will ultimately enter the race.

The NDC made significant gains in the region, doubling its parliamentary seats from four to eight — the first time in the party’s history it has achieved such a feat in Ashanti.

The party also improved its presidential performance, with John Dramani Mahama securing over 43,000 more votes than he did in the 2020 elections. In contrast, the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) recorded a reduction of more than 429,000 votes in 2024 compared to 2020.

Dubbed “Phase 2” of the tour of what is often referred to as the NPP’s “World Bank,” Mr. Asiedu Nketia is also expected to engage party leaders and grassroots supporters. The interactions will focus on assessing their views on the government’s performance so far, while also outlining the administration’s plans for the near future.

The tour will begin on Sunday, April 12, at Asawase, where he is scheduled to meet supporters at the Aboabo Astro Turf at 4:00 p.m.

The tour will continue across several constituencies in the region over the following days.

On Monday, April 13, he will visit:

• Manso Nkwanta at 9:00 a.m.
• Manso Adubia at 11:00 a.m.
• Odotobri at 1:00 p.m.
• Fomena at 2:30 p.m.
• Bekwai at 4:00 p.m.
• Bosomtwe at 5:30 p.m.

On Tuesday, April 14, the team will move to:

• Sekyere Afram Plains (Dagomba) at 9:00 a.m.
• Kumawu at 11:00 a.m.
• Effiduase Asokore at 1:00 p.m.
• Juaben at 2:30 p.m.
• Oforikrom at 4:00 p.m.
• Asokwa at 5:30 p.m.

On Wednesday, April 15, the tour will cover:

• Atwima Mponua at 9:00 a.m.
• Atwima Nwabiagya South at Church of Pentecost, Asenemaso Central at 11:00 a.m.
• Atwima Kwanwoma at Saviour Church, Adumasa at 1:00 p.m.
• Old Tafo at Tafo Methodist Church, opposite the NDC Party Office at 2:30 p.m.
• Manhyia North at Moshie Zongo Park at 3:30 p.m.
• Manhyia South at Abbis Park Sub-Metro, Ash Town at 4:30 p.m.
• Subin at the forecourt of the Regional Party Office at 5:30 p.m.

The tour will conclude on Thursday, April 16, with visits to:

• Bosome Freho at 9:00 a.m.
• Asante Akim South at 11:00 a.m.
• Asante Akim Central at 1:00 p.m.
• Asante Akim North at 2:30 p.m.
• Ejisu at 4:00 p.m.

The tour forms part of the NDC’s efforts to consolidate its gains in the Ashanti Region while strengthening engagement with party supporters at the grassroots level.

The Offoase Ayirebi MP has described the move as a troubling setback for accountability and parliamentary oversight.

Mr Oppong Nkrumah, who also serves as Ranking Member on Parliament’s Economy and Development Committee, was the originator of the motion seeking a comprehensive investigation into the programme run by the Bank of Ghana since 2021.

The motion, debated on Friday, March 27, 2026, sought to establish an inquiry into the design, operation, financial performance, and cost structure of the Gold-for-Reserves policy.

The programme, introduced during the previous administration, has been a central pillar of the economic strategy, aimed at boosting foreign exchange reserves, stabilising the cedi, and reducing dependence on external currencies by leveraging the country’s gold resources.

Historically, the reliance on commodities such as cocoa—exported since 1897—has shaped its foreign exchange accumulation strategy.

However, the introduction of the Gold-for-Reserves initiative marked a significant shift, with policymakers positioning it as one of the most impactful tools for building reserves in recent decades.

According to Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the programme has become the most significant contributor to foreign exchange accumulation in modern economic history, making it imperative for Parliament to fully understand its workings and outcomes.

Despite this, the Majority side of Parliament rejected the motion through a voice vote, effectively halting any formal investigation into the programme.

For Oppong Nkrumah and his colleagues on the Minority side, the decision represents what he describes as a missed opportunity for Parliament to fulfil its constitutional oversight role.

Reacting to the outcome, Oppong Nkrumah said he found the Majority’s decision “bizarre,” arguing that the proposed inquiry would have provided Parliament—and by extension the Ghanaian public—with a clearer understanding of the programme’s true performance, including competing claims about financial losses under both the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration and the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) government.

At the centre of the controversy are claims that the programme recorded a $214 million loss in 2025, a figure cited in political debates and reportedly referenced in international assessments.

The proposed inquiry was expected to examine not only these losses but also the broader financial and operational dynamics of the initiative since its inception.

The Ofoase-Ayirebi MP, Oppong Nkrumah, argued that Parliament has consistently approved the programme as part of the economic policy framework since 2023, and therefore has a duty to scrutinise its implementation.

“Why would Parliament decline an opportunity to exercise oversight on a programme it has itself approved?” he questioned, describing the Majority’s stance as akin to abandoning its constitutional responsibility.

He further raised concerns about the programme’s cost structure, alleging that for every $10 million released by the Bank of Ghana in 2025, approximately 15 per cent was lost to handling, transactional, and related charges.

According to him, such figures warrant a thorough investigation to determine whether the costs are justified and to identify possible corrective measures.

Another major issue highlighted by the MP relates to the management of the gold reserves under the programme.

He claimed that about 50 per cent of the gold acquired was sold off in the fourth quarter of 2025, around the same time calls for an inquiry were being made.

He questioned the rationale behind this decision, especially in light of subsequent government plans to repurchase gold at potentially higher prices, describing the sequence of actions as illogical and deserving of parliamentary scrutiny.

The Minority MP also raised concerns about the source of gold purchased under the programme, particularly in light of illegal small-scale mining, commonly known as galamsey.

He noted that while the President has indicated that 60 per cent of the gold exports come from small-scale mining, experts estimate that up to 80 per cent of that segment may be linked to illegal operations.

This, he argued, makes it critical for Parliament to investigate whether the Gold-for-Reserves programme is inadvertently relying on gold sourced from illegal mining activities.

He accused the Majority of choosing to “spin narratives” rather than subject the programme to a bipartisan, fact-based investigation that could establish the full truth.

“It is obvious that the Majority side has chosen partisanship over Ghana’s best interest. They prefer propaganda to facts,” he stated.

Despite the setback, Oppong Nkrumah indicated that the Minority would not abandon the issue. He pledged that alternative avenues would be pursued to ensure accountability, and suggested that a future Parliament with a different majority could reopen the matter.

“There is no statute of limitations on matters such as this,” he emphasised.

The rejection of the motion leaves several key questions about the Gold-for-Reserves programme unanswered, including its true financial performance, cost efficiency, and long-term sustainability.

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The Member of Parliament for Tamale North made the remarks on JoyNews Newsfile on Saturday, 28 March.

Speaking during discussions on the government’s Big Push infrastructure programme, Suhuyini stressed that the party has consistently highlighted procurement reforms in its campaign messaging.

“NDC promised to stop the abuse of sole sourcing,” he said, emphasising that the commitment remains central to the party’s governance agenda.

He noted that while sole sourcing is permitted under specific conditions within Ghana’s procurement framework, its misuse undermines transparency, competitiveness, and value for money in public spending.

Suhuyini highlighted the need for stricter adherence to procurement rules and greater accountability in contract awards.

The comments follow a report by The Fourth Estate, a project of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), which raised concerns about procurement practices under the Big Push programme.

The report highlighted the extensive use of sole sourcing and potential cost inflation, alleging that 81 contracts valued at over GH¢73 billion were awarded through sole sourcing within seven months.

However, Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has disputed the claims, stating that only 44% of major contracts under the programme were sole-sourced.

The ongoing debate continues to draw attention to procurement transparency as a key issue in the rollout of the government’s flagship infrastructure initiative.

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Speaking on PM Express Business Edition on Joy News he admitted that while he is still active in politics, the nature of his responsibilities has forced him to step back from the frontlines.

“Well, I’m still in politics; what we are doing is a political job. So I’m not really a corporate person. I refuse to see myself like that,” he said.

Sammy Gyamfi, who continues to serve as National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress, explained that his reduced visibility is not a withdrawal but a necessary adjustment.

“I’m still the serving national communications officer of the NDC, but admittedly, my time for that role has reduced significantly,” he noted.

He pointed to a strong support system within government and party ranks, saying others have effectively stepped in to maintain the communication machinery.

“Thankfully, I have enabled a deputy and a minister for government communications, who is also another brother, and so they filled the gap very effectively, and we are collaborating.”

Despite the shift, Gyamfi stressed that political communication remains ongoing, albeit from a less visible position.

“We do a lot of political communication work, even now that I find myself in this role, but from the background and at the right time, I believe Ghanaians, particularly party supporters, will see more of us in the political communication space.”

His comments suggest a deliberate recalibration rather than a retreat, with focus now tilted toward his national assignment.

“We’ve been given an important assignment…Fortunately, I believe we have very capable, competent, effective, you know, communicators, most of them are very young guys who are doing the same job that some of us were doing.”

Sammy Gyamfi admitted that his absence from the public political arena has not gone unnoticed.

“But I agree, sometimes people will miss your face, people will miss a voice, and so we won’t make time for that as well.”

Still, he made it clear where his priority lies.

“But primarily, the work is cut out for us, and that is to ensure that we transform Ghana’s gold sector and optimise national benefits from the good resources we’ve been endowed with by Almighty God.”

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Speaking to chiefs, residents, and party supporters at Nsuta Kwamang Beposo on Wednesday during his three-day Ashanti Regional “Thank You Tour,” Mr. Asiedu Nketia described the party’s electoral gains in the region as a significant political shift.

He noted that historically, the NDC had struggled to make major inroads in the Ashanti Region, with campaign activities previously limited to a few constituencies. However, ahead of the 2024 elections, the party deliberately expanded its outreach to all districts in the region.

According to the NDC chairman, the strategy was successful, as the party widened its influence and significantly increased its vote share.

From a long-standing benchmark where winning about 28 percent of the regional vote was considered adequate for national success, the NDC exceeded expectations, achieving over 30 percent and approaching 35 percent of the vote.

The parliamentary results also reflected the party’s progress. While the NDC had traditionally won only three to four seats in the region, it secured eight seats in the 2024 polls—its best performance to date in Ashanti.

Mr. Asiedu Nketia said the results show growing acceptance of the NDC within Asanteman and highlighted the region’s strategic importance in national elections. He stressed that no political party could realistically win power in Ghana without making significant gains in the Ashanti Region, given its population size and political influence.

He further emphasized that the NDC’s engagement with the region would be ongoing, describing the party’s relationship with Ashanti voters as a long-term commitment requiring consistent presence and attention.

The chairman also acknowledged the support of traditional leaders and religious groups, noting that their prayers, advice, and encouragement contributed to the party’s success.

The office was reportedly locked up by some irate youth believed to be supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), who were protesting the appointment of a new manager.

In an interview with JoyNews’ James Avedzi, the MP described the action as unacceptable and harmful to Ghana’s democratic progress and urged “government to act swiftly by investigating the matter and ensuring that those responsible are arrested and prosecuted.”

According to him, decisive action will serve as a deterrent to others who may attempt similar acts in the future and help safeguard the country’s democratic institutions.

“This is a serious issue. I thought by this time these things had settled down and government had focused on working hard for Ghana. But it is becoming worrying that such cruel and uncivilised actions are taking place in this country,” he said.

Mr. Baafi questioned how individuals could forcefully shut down a public institution without regard for the law or the workers who depend on it.

“How can you enter a public sector institution and close it down without recourse to the law or consideration for the people who work there? This is absolutely not right and it must be condemned,” he stressed.

He warned that allowing such incidents to continue could undermine the country’s democratic gains, noting that democracy in Ghana has come a long way and must be protected.

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Speaking in an interview on Accra-based UTV, Shaibu said NDC members in Ejisu worked tirelessly during the 2024 elections to help the party secure victory in the Ashanti Region, with assurances from party leadership that their efforts would be recognised through appointments.

According to him, tensions rose after reports emerged that a new NHIA manager had been appointed to the Ejisu office without consultation with local party structures. He claimed the appointee is not known within the constituency and has no ties to the area.

“We worked hard for the party to come to power, and we were assured that our efforts would be rewarded with jobs,” he said. “Now we are being told that someone has been appointed as NHIA manager, but we don’t even know who the person is or where he is coming from. He is not one of us.”

Shaibu argued that the decision overlooks competent individuals within the constituency who are capable of occupying the position and delivering effectively.

He explained that after the previous officer was transferred to Kumasi, many residents expected the replacement to be selected from Ejisu.

“A lot of people here are competent and fit for the job. We thought an indigene would be appointed, but that has not happened,” he stated.

He warned that failure to address the concerns of grassroots members could weaken support for the party ahead of the 2028 general elections.

“If we don’t wake up, in 2028 we won’t be able to go out to campaign or mobilise the youth for the party,” he cautioned.

Shaibu maintained that the action to lock up the NHIA office was intended to draw attention to their concerns, adding that they are ready to cooperate with the police if invited.

“I don’t mind if I am arrested. We are ready to respond if the police call us, but we expect the leadership to also engage us and do the right thing,” he added.

The incident has sparked debate over internal party dynamics and the balance between political appointments and grassroots expectations.

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In an interview with Accra-based Okay FM, the MP clarified that the images are manipulated and do not reflect what actually occurred during parliamentary proceedings.

“There are several of the photos going around. Even one of them had me with my mouth wide open. These are AI-generated photos,” he explained.

Baba Jamal suggested the circulation of the images is part of efforts by some individuals to discredit him following what he described as a significant moment in his political journey.

“People would always want to dent every beautiful thing when it happens,” he added.

The photos began trending on social media shortly after the swearing-in ceremony, prompting mixed reactions from users online.

Baba Jamal, who previously served as Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, was declared the winner of the Ayawaso East parliamentary seat on March 3, 2026, after polling 10,884 votes, defeating the NPP’s Yussif Ali Baba, who received 4,009 votes.

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Speaking during his Thank You Tour at Ayawaso West Wuogon, Mr Asiedu Nketia warned against attempts to remove committed members through bribery or unfair practices.

He stressed that party members who have consistently contributed to the NDC’s growth should be maintained in leadership positions to preserve unity and motivation ahead of future elections.

“Sidelining dedicated members could undermine our campaign efforts in upcoming elections,” he cautioned, adding that strong and committed branch executives are crucial to winning general elections.

Mr Asiedu Nketia urged party members to vote for individuals who demonstrate genuine commitment to the party’s success and long-term development.

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Speaking during the NDC National Chairman’s Thank You Tour, Mr Dumelo noted that many members who worked hard for the party deserve to be rewarded. He emphasised that supporting grassroots members with employment opportunities is key to sustaining their commitment to the party.

Mr Dumelo also pledged to increase the party’s vote margin in the constituency in future elections, aiming to raise it from the current 13,000 to between 17,000 and 20,000 votes.

He attributed the strong performance in the constituency to the support and leadership of the NDC National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, and assured party supporters that ongoing efforts will be made to consolidate and expand the party’s influence.

Additionally, Mr Dumelo encouraged party members not to lose hope, stressing that although some may feel disappointed, opportunities will emerge with time as the NDC works to maintain power and continue delivering on its promises to Ghanaians.

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Mr. Azumah said many grassroots supporters played a crucial role in helping the party return to power and therefore deserve some form of appreciation.

Speaking on Adom News’ Dwaso Nsem, he argued that sponsoring some party loyalists to support the Ghana national football team abroad could serve as recognition for their commitment.

“He shouldn’t justify that we came to power through the support and efforts of other people,” he said, stressing that the sacrifices made by party supporters should not be forgotten.

According to him, political activism often requires personal sacrifices that are rarely acknowledged once elections are won.

“People worked to ensure the NDC’s victory. Being in opposition is not an easy thing,” he noted.

Mr. Azumah suggested that such opportunities could also serve as a meaningful gesture for supporters who may not have benefited from appointments or other forms of recognition after the election.

“If we couldn’t give them appointments because of certificates and qualifications, we can do this for them,” he said.

Beyond the political dimension, he also emphasised that international travel exposes people to new ideas and experiences.

“It is not just about people going to watch the football. They can learn a lot from the places they will visit,” he added.

Mr. Azumah further urged the government to prioritise the initiative and mobilise resources to make it possible.

“The government should find money by any means possible to sponsor their trip to the World Cup,” he stated.

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After casting his ballot at the Alhaji Iddrisu House 2 polling station on Tuesday, March 3, he told journalists that his political journey is guided by a dedication to the people, not possessions.

“I am not motivated by materialistic things. I am motivated by human service. And that is why I am here to serve my people,” he stated.

Drawing on his experience as a former Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Baba Jamal expressed confidence in his ability to replicate — and even improve upon — his past performance if elected in Ayawaso East.

“I’ve done it before in Akwatia, and I know I will do it better in East Ayawaso,” he said, describing the voting process as fair so far.

He urged residents to rally behind what he described as a renewed vision for the constituency, adding that the ultimate outcome rests beyond human control.

“As I said, God makes kings. So the percentage will be determined by Allah. We have prayed for a high percentage, but it is in the hands of Allah, and Allah will determine it,” he remarked.

At the close of polls on March 3, Baba Jamal Mohammed Ahmed of the NDC emerged victorious, securing 10,884 votes to win the contest convincingly.

His closest challenger, Baba Ali Yusif of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), polled 4,009 votes. Independent candidate Mohammed Umar Sanda garnered 1,885 votes, David Kanor, also an independent candidate, secured 104 votes, while Ibrahim Iddrisu of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG) obtained 43 votes.

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Following his decisive win on Tuesday, March 3, the former Akwatia MP revealed that his mother had promised to ensure his return to Parliament — a promise that has now been fulfilled.

“I want to thank the Almighty Allah for giving us this victory. Let me state that I dedicate this victory to my 93-year-old mother, Mimi, for promising to support me and ensuring that one day I would go back to Parliament,” he declared.

He noted that for years, she carried the conviction that her son would return to the House. Tuesday’s result, he said, was more than a political comeback; it was the fulfilment of a promise.

“Today, her vision and wish have come true. And I thank Allah for her life, and I dedicate this victory to her.”

Though she stayed out of the political spotlight, Mimi’s influence, her son suggested, shaped the resilience behind his campaign.

Baba Jamal was quick to remind supporters that the win belonged to the constituency as much as to his family.

“I want to state that this victory is not for me, Baba Jamal, alone; it’s for the good people of Ayawaso East. I want to thank all of them for having confidence in me and electing me as their parliamentary candidate-elect,” he added.

The former High Commissioner to Nigeria was declared the winner in the highly anticipated election after polling 10,884 votes, defeating the NPP’s Yussif Ali Baba, who obtained 4,009 votes.

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Baba Jamal polled 10,884 votes to defeat the NPP’s Yussif Ali Baba, who secured 4,009 votes.

Shortly after being officially declared winner by the Electoral Commission, he described the mandate as a collective achievement rather than a personal triumph.

“This victory is not for me, Baba Jamal, alone; it’s for the good people of Ayawaso East,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to constituents for entrusting him with the seat.

“I want to thank all of them for having confidence in me and electing me as their Member of Parliament.”

The new MP dedicated the victory to his 93-year-old mother, Mimi, recalling her long-standing encouragement.

“Let me state that I dedicate this victory to my 93-year-old mother, Mimi, for promising to support me and ensuring that one day I would go back to Parliament. Today, her vision and wish have come true.”

He also acknowledged the support of his immediate family.

“I want to thank my wife here, my family and my children for the spirit of endurance they have shown since I made it my vision to return to Parliament.”

Baba Jamal further extended appreciation to the leadership of the National Democratic Congress, including the national chairman and general secretary, as well as the Greater Accra Regional and Ayawaso East Constituency executives. He also recognised supporters from Akwatia “who came in their numbers to support me for this project.”

He reserved special mention for President John Mahama.

“Let me also give a special thanks to President John Mahama, once again, for finding me worthy to go and work in Nigeria.”

Reflecting on his recent experience abroad, he said it had prepared him for the task ahead.

“Those few months that I stayed in Nigeria have added to my experience, which I am bringing to Parliament to serve this country better.”

Central to his remarks was a firm pledge to transform the constituency.

“I want to assure the people of Ayawaso East that the resetting of Ayawaso East starts now.

“We are going to Parliament. We are coming to reset the whole constituency and ensure that what Ayawaso East deserves comes to pass.”

He also commended the media for their role throughout the campaign period.

“I want to thank the press for your support.

“For all these weeks that you have been chasing and working with us — I understand that sometimes you followed us late into the night.”

Looking ahead, he signalled his intention to build a constructive relationship with journalists.

“I believe we are going to form a partnership with the press as we reset Ayawaso East, so we can work together.

“Please correct us when we are wrong, but do so in a good and professional manner.”

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In an interview with Adom News, Gbande noted that the voting process has been peaceful, with law enforcement present to maintain order.

“Everybody knows and understands that the Nima election is a family affair. So the exercise has been peaceful,” he said.

He downplayed the presence of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), asserting that the opposition was only there to “escort us” and did not play a significant role in the voting.

“The NPP only came to escort us,” Gbande remarked, adding that the police have been ensuring calm and order throughout the exercise.

The deputy secretary also encouraged voter participation, emphasising that by-elections often see lower turnout but remain important for strengthening democracy.

“By-elections usually have low turnout. But at the end of the day, the NDC candidate will be declared 80%,” he said, projecting a commanding win for his party.

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Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, he highlighted what he described as clear signs of a change in voter sentiment, expressing optimism that the outcome would favour his party.

“Let’s wait till 5 p.m.; the Ayawaso East seat will change hands, Insha Allah. It is obvious we are going to win this election,” he said.

Baba Ali also urged constituents to cast their ballots calmly and in large numbers, appealing for strong voter turnout in his favour.

Reacting to a recent Global InfoAnalytics survey projecting a 75 percent victory for the NDC’s Baba Jamal, he questioned the reliability of the poll, citing events on the ground that suggest a different trajectory.

“Not long ago, you conducted a poll in Ayawaso here, and what happened? This is Ayawaso East. Here, the data doesn’t work in that manner. What is happening currently on the ground will prove that the data is clearly wrong. So let’s wait and see,” he stated.

He also described the voting process so far as calm and well-organised.

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Speaking to Accra-based Channel One News, Mr. Nimako pointed out that the same firm had inaccurately predicted results during the NDC’s internal primaries.

“He’s the same person who predicted Baba Jamal would lose in the NDC primary. But he won. Who are the commissioners of his polls? For me, it’s neither here nor there. I can assure you that our candidate, Baba Ali, has been sold to the constituents; he’s known as the home boy and liked by all. Ask Baba Jamal his opinion about Mussa Dankwah, and we will take it from there,” he said.

The poll, conducted by Global InfoAnalytics between February 28 and March 1, sampled 972 voters in the constituency.

It projected that NDC candidate Baba Jamal could secure 75 per cent of the vote, while NPP’s Baba Ali Yussif is expected to obtain 21 per cent. Independent candidate Umaru Sanda Muhammed is projected at 3 per cent, with Ibrahim Iddrisu and David each below one per cent.

Despite the survey, Mr. Nimako insisted that the NPP’s campaign, driven by extensive grassroots engagement, would ultimately decide the outcome.

“We, the NPP, have engaged the constituents, we have sold our candidate to them, and we know that they are deciding in favour of him. He’s going to be the next MP for Ayawaso East. I can assure you that our candidate will come out victorious,” he added.

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Speaking to Adom News while touring selected polling stations on Tuesday, Tanko Computer said feedback from the areas he had monitored suggested strong backing for the NDC candidate.

“We will hand the NPP a defeat they will never forget,” he declared, expressing confidence that the outcome would favour his party despite what he described as generally low voter turnout.

According to him, early observations indicate that the NDC maintains a comfortable edge. He also dismissed concerns about the independent candidate, Umaru Sanda Mohammed, a former NDC member, insisting that his participation poses no significant challenge to the party’s prospects.

Meanwhile, the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) parliamentary candidate, Baba Ali Yussif, attributed the slow turnout to the Ramadan period.

He noted that many Muslim voters may choose to cast their ballots later in the day and expressed strong optimism about his chances at the polls.

Both camps remain upbeat as voting continues across the constituency, with party officials closely monitoring developments at various polling stations.

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Five aspirants are contesting the race, including former Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Baba Jamal, representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

The other candidates are Baba Ali of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), independent aspirant Umaru Sanda Muhammed, who recently severed ties with the NDC, as well as Ibrahim Iddrisu and David Kannor.

The Electoral Commission disclosed that 49,966 voters are on the electoral roll in Ayawaso East. Polls opened at 7 a.m. and are scheduled to close at 5 p.m.

The by-election became necessary following the death of the sitting Member of Parliament, Mahama Naser Toure, who passed away in January while undergoing treatment at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, leaving the Ayawaso East parliamentary seat vacant.

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The election follows the passing of the sitting National Democratic Congress (NDC) MP, Mahama Nasser Toure, after a short illness, which created a vacancy in Parliament.

Five aspirants, including former Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Baba Jamal, are contesting the race.

Although all aspirants remain confident of victory, a poll by Global InfoAnalytics projects a 75 per cent win for Baba Jamal, who is also a former MP for Akwatia, ahead of his closest contender, Baba Ali of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Independent aspirant Umaru Sanda Muhammed, who recently severed ties with the NDC, is projected to secure about 3 per cent of the vote.

The survey further suggests that the remaining candidates, Ibrahim Iddrisu and David, are each expected to garner less than one per cent of the total ballots cast, highlighting what appears to be a largely two-horse race between the NDC and NPP.

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The NDC National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, announced the development during the party’s final rally in the constituency on Sunday, March 1.

He noted that the expulsion takes immediate effect, meaning Mr. Mohammed will no longer enjoy the rights and privileges associated with party membership.

“It will take him about eight years before he can contest any position in the party. Even if, after the by-election, he decides to return, he cannot contest immediately and would have to wait until 2032. I am really pained for him,” he said.

Going Biblical, the General Mosquito, as he is popularly known, added:

“The Bible teaches that the message of salvation can seem foolish to those who have gone astray. Such a person is already on a path that leads to destruction and will ignore guidance. Only afterwards will they regret and say, ‘If only I had known.’ With that in mind, Umaru Sanda remains our brother, but he is no longer part of the party.”

The NDC had earlier, in a statement on February 17, explained that Mr. Umar Sanda forfeited his membership because his decision violated the party’s constitution and its collective choice to field a duly endorsed candidate.

The party has also prohibited him from using the NDC’s name, logo, colours, symbols, or any other intellectual property in his campaign or related political activities.

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Speaking on Accra-based Channel One News, Mr. Khalid expressed disappointment at calls for the cancellation of the February 7 parliamentary primary and the disqualification of aspirants accused of inducement.

He emphasized that Baba Jamal shares a longstanding and cordial relationship with colleagues in Parliament and should not have been subjected to what he considers unfair criticism.

“Baba Jamal’s relationship with the NDC in Parliament is cordial. They have a very cordial relationship. Baba Jamal didn’t deserve what they did to him because some of them came to Parliament through by-elections, and Baba Jamal has been a pillar in any by-election that the NDC organised,” he stated.

The comments follow a public call by the NDC Majority Caucus for the immediate annulment of the Ayawaso East parliamentary primary amid claims of vote buying.

A committee set up by the party to investigate the allegations subsequently cleared Baba Jamal of any wrongdoing, effectively affirming his candidature for the by-election scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

Mr. Khalid argued that the posture adopted by some MPs suggested a moral high ground that does not reflect the realities of internal political contests.

“Especially when it comes to our internal elections, both the NDC and the NPP, we all have these things that we need to address. Instead of sounding like you are the saint, can any Member of Parliament admit that he has never given anything before he came to Parliament? That hypocritical stand they took was very hurtful because we knew the relationship he had with them,” he added.

Despite the earlier controversy, the campaign team remains confident, particularly after the party’s investigative committee dismissed the allegations.

Meanwhile, a new survey by Global InfoAnalytics projects a win for Baba Jamal in the upcoming Ayawaso East by-election. Conducted between February 28 and March 1 and sampling 972 voters across the constituency, the poll places him ahead of his main rival, Baba Ali of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

The by-election is scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

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The poll, conducted between February 28 and March 1, sampled 972 voters across the constituency. Findings from the research place Baba Jamal significantly ahead of his closest competitor, Baba Ali of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

According to the projections, the NDC flagbearer is tipped to secure 75 per cent of the vote, while the NPP candidate is forecast to obtain 21 per cent.

Independent aspirant Umaru Sanda Muhammed, who recently severed ties with the NDC, is projected to receive about 3 per cent support.

The survey further suggests that the remaining candidates, Ibrahim Iddrisu and David, are each expected to garner less than one per cent of total ballots cast, highlighting what appears to be a largely two-horse race between the NDC and NPP.

The by-election became necessary following the death of the sitting Member of Parliament, Mahama Naser Toure, who passed away in January while undergoing treatment at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, leaving the Ayawaso East parliamentary seat vacant.

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Speaking during a community engagement in the constituency, Nana B, as he is widely known, described Baba Ali as a homegrown candidate whose life story is closely tied to Ayawaso East.

He emphasised that the aspirant’s deep roots in the area make him the right choice to represent the people in Parliament.

According to Nana B, Baba Ali has not only lived in the constituency for years but has also worked and taught there, giving him firsthand understanding of the daily challenges residents face.

“Baba Ali Yussif is your brother. He sleeps with you, he wakes up with you, and he has taught in this constituency before. He was born here; the food you all eat is the same food he eats. Don’t bring in any stranger. This is your brother. As you see him here, even after you vote for him, he will still be here, available and with you,” he said in pidgin.

The by-election follows the death of the sitting Member of Parliament, Mahama Naser Toure, in January while receiving treatment at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.

Five candidates, including former High Commissioner to Nigeria Baba Jamal, are seeking to succeed Alhaji Toure. The others are independent candidates: Alhaji Mohammed Umaru Sanda, David Kannor, and Ibrahim Iddrisu of the Liberal People’s Party (LPP).

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At a press conference in Kumasi, the group praised Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s track record, highlighting her academic excellence, integrity, and commitment to national development.

They noted that her leadership qualities and years of public service make her a strong contender to unite the party and deliver effective governance.

The group traced her academic journey from Wesley Girls’ High School to higher education at the University of Dakar, the University of Cape Coast, and York University in Canada, where she obtained her postgraduate and doctoral degrees. According to them, her steady rise through academia reflects her dedication and competence.

They also highlighted her historic appointment as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast in 2008, where she became the first woman to head a public university in Ghana.

During her tenure, the university saw major improvements in academic programmes, research development, and technology infrastructure.

The teachers further pointed to her contributions on the global stage, including her role with UNESCO and her fellowship with the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences.

They said these achievements demonstrate her ability to represent Ghana internationally and contribute to policy development.

They added that her transition into politics and her current role as Vice President under John Dramani Mahama reflect her continued commitment to national service, particularly in promoting education, youth empowerment, and inclusive development.

The Platform concluded by urging the NDC and Ghanaians to support Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s potential candidature, stressing that Ghana needs experienced, visionary, and unifying leadership as the country prepares for the 2028 elections.

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He argues that democracy has drifted away from improving the well-being of ordinary citizens.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Tuesday, he said the country’s politics has become consumed by elite competition and early electioneering, rather than development.

“What is supposed to be the political alternative, the opposition [NPP] also immediately went into who is going to be their candidate,” he said.

“And from then on, it’s a game of everybody looking for how they can trip the other.”

He expressed concern about how quickly political actors have shifted their focus to the next general election.

“So that is in 2028, we are sitting in 2026, and the number of times that you hear the conversation about 2028, you do worry.”

According to him, this preoccupation with succession battles has weakened democracy’s developmental purpose.

“So what has happened is that development did not come to be the real partner, accompanying partner of democracy, where the purpose of the democracy was actually to improve the well-being of people, to bring real development.”

Instead, he argued, national attention has been diverted to internal party struggles.

“We’re spending all our time on the factional infighting among what I call the political elites.”

Nsarkoh did not limit his criticism to one side of the political divide. He insisted that both major parties are part of the same establishment.

“The party of the elites is in power, and it has two segments, the NPP and the NDC.”

“They’re all the party of the elites.”

His remarks add to the growing public debate over whether Ghana’s democratic practices are delivering tangible improvements in living standards.

By framing the New Patriotic Party and the National Democratic Congress as different wings of the same elite structure, Nsarkoh challenged the notion of a meaningful political alternative.

He suggested that the fixation on internal jockeying for power, years ahead of the next polls, reflects a system more concerned with control than transformation.

For him, the deeper worry is that democracy has not been anchored to development as intended.

He made the remarks on Wednesday, February 18, during a Political Inclusion and Consensus Building Forum organised by the African Centre for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA).

Reflecting on Ghana’s political evolution since the start of the Fourth Republic in 1992, Bagbin recounted his participation in the maiden congress of the National Democratic Congress in Cape Coast, highlighting how the gathering brought together people from diverse backgrounds, fostering national unity.

He noted that he had also attended congresses of the New Patriotic Party upon invitation, where he observed a similar atmosphere of inclusion and engagement.

Despite these experiences, the Speaker expressed concern over the dominance of two major parties in Ghana’s political landscape.

“Now, we seem to have only two strong, vibrant, surviving parties,” he said. “For me, I think we need a third force.”

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In a letter dated February 17, 2026, and signed by the party’s General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the NDC said Mr. Sanda’s decision violates the party’s constitution and its collective choice to field a duly endorsed candidate for the March 3, 2026 by-election.

The party stated that by deciding to run against the officially endorsed NDC candidate, Mr. Sanda has automatically lost his membership with immediate effect.

The letter also prohibits him from using the party’s name, logo, colours, symbols, or any other intellectual property associated with the NDC in his campaign or related political activities.

The NDC urged Mr. Sanda to comply with the directive.

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Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Tuesday, he insisted that the NDC cannot build public trust by simply attacking the governing NPP while repeating the same conduct it condemns.

“One thing I’ve always said is this, you can’t simply be attacking your opponent when you were doing exactly the same thing as your opponent,” he said. “So that hypocrisy, for me, is not something that we should encourage.”

The NDC General Secretary also acknowledged that his insistence on values and principles may not always be popular inside the party, and could even affect his personal political prospects.

“You must be ready for consequences,” he said, stressing that he is willing to defend what he believes is right, even at the cost of my political ambition.”

Responding to host Evans Mensah on what message he carries to party delegates, Mr Kwetey said he is not introducing any strange ideas.

He argued that the party’s anthem already captures the values he is advocating, including the duty to put Ghana first.

“The delegates are delegates of the National Democratic Congress, and they sing with pride… the anthem of the party,” he said, adding that the anthem speaks to the need “to always place our country as number one.”

According to him, the problem is not that the party lacks values, but that many may have lost sight of them.

“The fact that you may not fully understand, it doesn’t mean that effort must not be made to help us all remember and be anchored on those values,” he said.

Mr Kwetey tied his argument directly to the NDC’s public message of resetting Ghana, insisting that the party must first demonstrate that reset internally.

“We have said we are resetting the country. And to reset the country means business as usual has to be over,” he stated.

He rejected what he described as simplistic partisan thinking.

“You simply cannot expect that everything is done. NPP is bad, ndc is good. No, NPP is bad. But it doesn’t mean ndc is perfect,” he said.

He said the party must improve itself in order to produce better leaders for the country.

“Our party must become better and better, because that’s the only way we can produce leaders who truly will be able to place this country where it ought to be,” he said.

For him, attacking the NPP alone will not be enough. “Simply accusing the NPP is no, it’s not enough,” he stressed.

Mr Kwetey said the NDC owes the public more because of the responsibility placed on it.

“To whom a lot is given, a lot is expected,” he said, adding that “the people of Ghana have given us a lot of responsibility.”

He said the biggest obligation is to the youth.

“We owe it to, especially the young generation of Ghanaians, to make sure that the examples we are setting are different examples,” he said.

Mr Kwetey also downplayed the obsession with personal ambition in politics, saying his focus is on national transformation.

“For me… it’s not an ambition. It’s about transforming our country,” he said.

He ended with a reminder that political leadership is temporary, but values must endure.

“I’m here today, tomorrow, I’m not going to be here,” he said. “But let’s make sure we are putting down foundations and putting principles that would make the party greater and stronger, and that will make the country greater and stronger.”

Addressing supporters on Thursday, February 13, Mr Asiedu Nketia described the constituency as both a political battleground and a personal stronghold, reflecting on long-standing alliances, courtroom disputes, and tense election contests.

“I came here this morning, and as the constituency chairman and the regional chairman have already said, I have come to my very own people. I have had a long-standing relationship with this constituency,” he said.

Roots of a Political Bond

Mr Asiedu Nketia traced his connection to the area to his friendship with the late Dr Joseph Kweku Enos, whom he first met in Parliament.

“It all started with Dr Enos, who has sadly passed on. I first met him in Parliament, and from there we became very good friends. It was a strong and meaningful relationship,” he said.

According to him, that relationship drew him into one of the constituency’s most turbulent political periods. He recounted how Dr Enos was unseated during an election by a political opponent he referred to as “Edumadze.”

“At a point, during an election, an ‘elephant’ called Edumadze emerged. He unseated Dr Enos and took the seat from him. For four years, we went to court countless times,” he stated.

Although Dr Enos eventually won the legal challenge, Mr Asiedu Nketia said parliamentary proceedings had concluded, preventing him from returning to the House.

“When Edumadze assumed office, it was through forceful means. Elections in the constituency became aggressive. The name Edumadze symbolises stagnation—wherever there was progress, it was halted,” he alleged, adding that despite later serving as a regional minister, “we saw no meaningful development in the Ajumako constituency. ”

Encouraging Ato Forson’s Return

Mr Asiedu Nketia said a significant turning point came during his tenure as NDC General Secretary, when he met Cassiel Ato Forson, then a young entrepreneur based in the United States.

“Around that time, I met a young man called Ato Forson. He was working in the United States as an entrepreneur. We had a conversation, and he told me he was from this constituency and was interested in politics,” he recounted.

Describing the political climate at the time, he said, “I told him that we were in a very difficult situation, as there was a man in the Ajumako Constituency who was suppressing everything and stifling all progress.”

He encouraged Dr Forson to return to Ghana and contest the seat. “I believed he was the one who could overthrow him. That was how Ato Forson came into the picture,” he added.

Tensions in the 2020 Elections

Mr Asiedu Nketia alleged that since entering Parliament, Dr Forson had been persistently targeted by the New Patriotic Party (NPP), particularly during election periods.

“Whenever elections were approaching, it was as though the Ajumako Constituency had its own special budget dedicated to removing Ato Forson from office,” he claimed.

Recounting the 2020 general election, he said the atmosphere in the constituency became highly charged.

“If you recall, in 2020, vehicles were hired, accompanied by soldiers and heavily built men, who were brought into the constituency. At that time, I was in the Ashanti Region,” he said.

He described receiving a call from Dr Forson amid the tension. “Ato called me and said, ‘General, the situation has become very tense and difficult. Where are you?’ I explained where I was and told him it would be difficult to arrive immediately.”

“I therefore guided him over the phone and advised him on what to do. I assured him that, whatever the case, they could never defeat him,” he added.

According to Mr Asiedu Nketia, opponents had already identified Dr Forson as a rising force within the NDC. “They had formed the view that he would become a prominent and important figure for the NDC, and any plans they had against him were intended to destroy him politically.”

Leadership Choices and Internal Resistance

Following Dr Forson’s return to Parliament, Mr Asiedu Nketia was elected National Chairman of the NDC. Before assuming office, he said he consulted Dr Forson, who supported him.

“When I took office and observed quietly, I realised I was going into a battle. I said that if the party entrusted me with leadership, I would lead it to victory. But if I am the coach, then I must be allowed to select my own formation for the match.”

He continued, “If I fail, then the blame should be placed on me. However, I knew that if I was given the mandate to choose my own team, defeat would not be an option.”

After what he described as careful consideration, he appointed Dr Forson as leader of the party in Parliament, with Kofi Armah Buah as his deputy and Governs Kwame Agbodza as whip.

“I told Ato that if he failed, it would mean he had finished General Mosquito. Therefore, they had to work hard, and I would support them fully so that we would emerge victorious,” he said.

The decision, he acknowledged, drew sharp criticism from within the party. “Because of this decision, I received many insults. Some people even demonstrated against me. Some party elders urged me to reconsider my decision. But I stood by my choice because I knew why I had selected those individuals.”

“I made it clear that if we proceeded and lost, I would resign. They should be allowed to do their work,” he added.

Court Battles and 2024 Campaign

Mr Asiedu Nketia also addressed legal proceedings brought against Dr Forson.

“As events unfolded, the NPP alleged that Ato had misused funds, and he was arrested and taken to court,” he said. “I spoke to him and said, ‘Ato, they are doing all of this to undermine the victory we seek.’”

He said he urged Dr Forson to remain steadfast. “I advised him to remain firm and assured him that we would confront them politically in the constituency and make it clear that there was nothing they could do to him.”

Reaffirming his support, he declared, “Nobody can touch Ato Forson, not even a hair on his head. Nobody can imprison him unjustly.”

He maintained that the allegations ultimately lost momentum and did not derail the party’s efforts.

Turning to the 2024 general election campaign, Mr Asiedu Nketia said the NDC remained focused despite skepticism about its parliamentary prospects.

“Some people said that even if we won the presidency, if we did not secure enough parliamentary seats, the party would be ridiculed,” he noted.

“I responded by saying that the presidential campaign should be led by the president and his vice, while the parliamentary campaign should be entrusted to me. If my test was to secure parliamentary seats, then I understood the assignment, and I would deliver to prove that I had passed that test.”

The visit formed part of the NDC’s nationwide Thank You Tour following the 2024 general elections, which saw the party return to power after winning the presidential contest.

The tour is intended to appreciate party supporters, review campaign strategies, and strengthen internal structures across constituencies.

Mr Nketia, however, encouraged supporters to remain hopeful and committed as the party works to consolidate its gains and improve its performance nationwide.

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Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, a member of the NDC’s Ayawaso East Investigative Committee warned that failure to properly deal with issues such as vote buying and inducement in party primaries could erode public confidence.

“The electorate gave NDC the power to govern this country on the promise that we will do things differently,” he said.

“That difference should extend to our internal operations, internal matters in the party.”

He argued that if the party downplays issues surrounding the Ayawaso East primary, it could erode public trust.

“So if the party… release matters of this nature… it will sap the confidence that people who give us the mandate… on the promise of doing things differently.”

His comments follow the setting up of the investigative committee to examine claims that aspirants offered inducements, including television sets and cash, to delegates during the primary held on Saturday, February 7.

Mr Fusseini said the committee’s findings were clear. “We came to the conclusion, an unalloyed and firm conclusion, that there was widespread illegal activity. I mean, the voter buying and inducement.”

He stressed that the misconduct was not attributable to a single individual. “Vote buying and inducement in the Ayawaso… and it was not limited to one candidate.”

He disclosed that the committee recommended the party could annul the results of the election. When host Evans Mensah asked if that recommendation was included, he responded: “Yeah.”

However, he said the committee also warned the party about the serious legal and practical barriers involved.

He explained that the elections were conducted under the supervision of the Electoral Commission and the results had already been certified.

“The elections were conducted and supervised by the Electoral Commission. The results were certified by the Electoral Commission as being credible.”

He raised what he called the key legal question: “Can a Political Party overturn the verdict of the Electoral Commission when they did not conduct the election?”

He acknowledged the public pressure for annulment but insisted the party must act responsibly. “People have a feeling… but the question is whether it will have a legal basis to stand up.”

Inusah Fuseini described what happened in Ayawaso East as “acts of impunity,” saying they violated several laws and internal party standards. He cited breaches of “the political party act, representation of people’s act CI 127… the criminal code… our Constitution… our code of ethics… our values.”

He warned against responding in a way that could lead to further wrongdoing. “Do you deal with impunity by acting with impunity? Do you deal with a wrong by acting wrongly?”

He also noted timing challenges, pointing out that the committee submitted its report “yesterday at 4 pm” and that “today… is the final day to present a candidate.”

Despite these hurdles, he said the committee still advised the party that annulment was possible, but only with careful consideration of the legal and procedural implications.

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Speaking in an interview on Joy FM’s Midday News on Wednesday, Mr Azeem said the NDC missed an opportunity to demonstrate seriousness in dealing with electoral malpractice.

Mr Azeem argued that at the very least, the party should have imposed a penalty to deter future incidents.

“They have woefully failed to make a point. At worst, they would have fined him an amount of money, but just clearing him to go ahead with the by-election doesn’t make sense,” he stated.

His comment comes after the NDC recently announced it would proceed with Baba Jamal as its candidate for the Ayawaso East By-election, even though a three-member investigative committee established allegations of vote-buying during the primaries.

The anti-corruption advocate warned that such decisions only reinforce the culture of vote-buying in Ghana’s politics and weaken public confidence in internal party democracy.

He called on political parties to take stronger and more consistent measures to address inducement and misconduct during elections.

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Speaking on Joy News AM about voter inducement during party primaries, he said, “It’s not just an NDC thing. It’s a Ghana thing.”

“That I think we should take a look at. And using technicalities, it is allowed. But when the masses don’t buy the technicalities, it becomes a problem.”

He added that the lack of ethics in Ghana begins after formal education.

“Ghana, we don’t have ethics. In other jurisdictions, they even have ethical societies. I’m sure at the university, they teach ethics. The question is, what happens to us when we leave the university? We don’t even have ethics in this country. This has been going on for the longest time. Maybe for the first time, we could have used this as a yardstick to say that enough is enough.”

Kofi Kapito argued that such practices are part of a broader cultural issue that hinders progress in African societies.

“That is what we do as Africans and Black people. That’s why we are not progressing. In other jurisdictions, yes, something will happen, but they make sure that it doesn’t happen again. We will give excuses. This person also did it. So what? Does it make it right?”

He also reflected on how voter inducement has contributed to delays in representation in constituencies, drawing on his own experience as a first-time voter.

“I voted for the first time as a Ghanaian in 1992. This thing was not there. Actually, in 1992, the NPP, as a party, as is done in some places, were actually even paying for people to come and represent the party. So what happened?”

He condemned the expectation that candidates should “buy” votes with handouts or promises.

“He comes and tells you that, when Honorable came, he didn’t do anything for you. He didn’t do the road. If you vote for me, I’ll do that. I’ll do this. I’ll do that. So you take this and make sure that you vote for me. This denial is using words like “TNT,” “welfare,” and “I fed them.” “Please, why should you feed people to vote for you? Are they your children?”

Her comments come amid controversy surrounding the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Ayawaso East parliamentary primaries, where Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed has been accused of distributing items, including 32-inch television sets and boiled eggs, to delegates on voting day.

Meanwhile, the NDC has confirmed Baba Jamal as its candidate for the Ayawaso East parliamentary by-election after deciding that annulment of the internal parliamentary primary was not an option. 

The General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, who was part of the Functional Executive Committee that received the three-member committee’s report mentioned that time constraints, potential legal challenges may arise if they decided to annul the results.

He also cited the lack of clear provisions in the party’s constitution to guide such situations as reasons for maintaining Baba Jamal as the validly elected parliamentary candidate. 

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