The Office of the Special Prosecutor has released the National Democratic Congress parliamentary candidate for Ayawaso East, Baba Jamal, on self-recognisance bail after several hours of interrogation. His lawyer, Victor Kwadjoga Adawudu, said investigators questioned his client about alleged vote-buying during the constituency primary held on Saturday, 7 February 2026. He added that officers also asked about a reported assault on an OSP official who attempted to serve an invitation letter. Counsel maintains his client denies knowledge of any items distributed in his name.
What we know so far
According to the defence, the questioning focused on suspected inducements at the Ayawaso East contest and the alleged confrontation with an OSP officer. The OSP granted self-recognisance bail, which allows a suspect to go home on a personal pledge to appear when required. No surety is needed, but failure to comply can trigger arrest or fresh charges. The duration of the interview, the number of statements taken and the specific exhibits reviewed have not been disclosed.
Allegations under probe
Investigators are examining two strands. First, whether party members were offered money or goods to influence votes at the primary. Vote-buying refers to giving or promising benefits to secure electoral support and is prohibited under Ghanaian law. Second, whether an OSP officer was assaulted while on official duty at the venue. The OSP has signalled a broader interest in electoral-corruption risks within internal party polls, including funding sources and the role of campaign agents.
The lawyer’s position
Mr Adawudu says his client rejects the allegation of orchestrating inducements. He argues that any reported distributions did not come from, or with the knowledge of, the candidate. “If he was aware and being a lawyer, he would have told the people the position of the law,” counsel stated. The legal team indicates it will cooperate with any further requests while insisting on due process and clarity on evidence standards.
What remains unclear
Key facts are still pending. Authorities have not stated how many witnesses they will call, which materials they have seized, or whether third-party vendors and campaign coordinators will face questioning. It is also unknown whether the OSP will pursue charges related to the alleged assault, administrative breaches, or both. The timeline for a prosecutorial decision has not been shared.
Why this case matters
Internal party contests shape who appears on the ballot, thus they influence national choices later in the year. Active oversight can deter illicit financing and coercion. However, investigations must also protect political rights and avoid chilling legitimate campaign activity. The outcome in Ayawaso East will signal how Ghana intends to police inducements within primaries and could set practice for future cases.
The candidate has been released on self-recognisance bail and remains available to investigators. Further official updates will clarify the evidentiary basis of the probe, the status of the alleged assault, and any next steps in the legal process.
