The Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC) has declared Baba Jamal, candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), winner of the Ayawaso East by-election.
The announcement, made Tuesday evening, confirmed the NDC’s return to the parliamentary seat following a closely watched contest triggered by the passing of the late MP, Naser Toure Mahama, in January.
The by-election, held on March 3, saw voters across the constituency cast their ballots in a race that featured five candidates. Baba Jamal faced competition from New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate Baba Ali Yussif, Ibrahim Iddrisu of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), and two independent contenders—Alhaji Mohammed Umaru Sanda and David Kanor.
While early hours of voting were characterised by relatively low turnout, observers suggested that the Ramadan fasting period may have influenced voter movement, with activity picking up later in the day. Despite the slow start, polling proceeded steadily across stations.
Security arrangements dominated much of the pre-election conversation. The Ghana Police Service had earlier assured residents of robust deployment across polling centres and strategic points within the constituency. Throughout the day, police described the atmosphere as calm and orderly, noting that adequate personnel were on standby to address any unforeseen incidents during voting and collation.
The Inspector-General of Police also toured parts of the constituency as polls closed, underscoring the emphasis placed on maintaining peace.
With the official declaration, jubilant NDC supporters poured onto the streets in celebration, marking what party faithful describe as a significant political victory in the constituency.
The outcome reinforces Baba Jamal’s political comeback and reshapes the parliamentary representation of Ayawaso East following months of uncertainty after the seat became vacant.
