Report By: Ishmael Barfi
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate for the Ayawaso East Constituency, Baba Ali Yussif, has expressed concern over the alleged vote buying observed during the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) internal contest to select a candidate for an upcoming by-election.
The NPP believes the practice undermines Ghana’s democracy and questions the NDC’s commitment to development.
According to Baba Ali Yussif in an exclusive interview, the NDC’s actions demonstrate a lack of regard for the constituency’s development, with voters seemingly prioritizing personal gain over the area’s progress. “The level of vote buying is so disturbing to democracy of Ghana,” he said.
“They don’t care whether the media will take it up. They don’t care. They share it display of wealth and place, and that’s bad to our democracy.”
Baba Ali Yussif, a seasoned educator and current Constituency Secretary of the NPP in Ayawaso East, has been acclaimed as the party’s candidate for the March 3, 2026 by-election. He asserts that the NPP is prepared for the by-election and aims to reclaim the seat, citing unmet expectations and developmental challenges under the NDC.
“The dynamics in the constituency over the past years that they were given the opportunity, they didn’t live up to expectation,” Baba Ali Yussif said. “And the constituents, I believe, we do the needful by bringing somebody who understand the plight of the constituents, know the developmental challenges, and give the person the note to lead them in the house of parliament.”
Baba Ali Yussif emphasized that the NPP’s message is focused on development and addressing the challenges facing the constituency, rather than engaging in vote buying. He urged voters to reject the NDC’s approach, stating, “Whoever wins will also take some time to recoup whatever he has spent in these primaries. And so when is the development coming?”
The Ayawaso East by-election is expected to be keenly contested, with both major parties intensifying preparations ahead of the vote. The NPP is confident in its ability to win the seat, citing the NDC’s perceived shortcomings in addressing the constituency’s developmental needs.
Baba Ali Yussif’s candidacy is seen as a strong challenge to the NDC, and his message of development and accountability resonates with many in the constituency. The outcome of the by-election is expected to be a significant indicator of the party’s prospects in future elections.
The NPP’s concerns about vote buying have sparked calls for greater transparency and accountability in the electoral process. The party has urged the Electoral Commission to ensure a free, fair, and transparent election.
As the by-election approaches, the political temperature in Ayawaso East is expected to rise, with both parties mobilizing their supporters and engaging in intense campaigning. The people of Ayawaso East will ultimately decide the fate of the constituency, and their choice will have far-reaching implications for the area’s development and future.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
