Baba Jamal of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has been declared the winner of the Ayawaso East by-election, securing a decisive victory and maintaining the seat for his party. The announcement follows Ghana’s March 3, 2026 poll in the Greater Accra Region, a race that attracted national attention as a barometer of voter sentiment ahead of future elections.
According to results released by the Electoral Commission of Ghana, Baba Jamal captured a significant majority of the votes cast, reflecting strong support among constituents in the Ayawaso East constituency. The win continues the NDC’s hold on the seat after the previous Member of Parliament, Naser Toure, also of the NDC, secured nearly 71 percent of the vote in the 2024 general election. Jamal’s performance represents either a consolidation or mild growth of that base, depending on voter turnout and demographic shifts in the area.
The main challenger from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) was Baba Ali, whose share of the vote in the by-election was considerably lower. Pre-election polling had suggested that the NPP was likely to underperform compared to 2024, and the actual results confirmed a comparatively weaker showing for the party in this constituency.
An independent candidate, Umaru Sanda Muhammed, formerly associated with the NDC, also contested the seat. While he drew a small percentage of votes, his impact did not significantly alter the overall outcome, as Jamal maintained a clear lead.
The by-election was marked by a focus on local issues, including development needs in Ayawaso East, youth employment, infrastructure, education and sanitation. Both major parties campaigned on platforms that emphasised service delivery and community improvement but Jamal’s campaign, grounded in continuity of representation and party loyalty, resonated strongly with voters.
Observers noted that the result may carry broader political implications. By-election victories like this are often interpreted as early indicators of public sentiment toward national leadership and party performance, particularly with general elections on the horizon. Political analysts suggested that the NDC’s strong showing in Ayawaso East could energise the party’s base and influence strategy in other constituencies across the country.
The Electoral Commission’s declaration follows the sorting and collation of votes from polling stations throughout the constituency. Voter turnout was in line with expectations for a by-election, with many residents participating in the democratic process despite weather challenges and logistical concerns.
Reacting to the victory, Baba Jamal thanked constituents for their support and pledged to work diligently on their behalf in Parliament. He emphasised themes of unity, community development and responsive representation, and committed to prioritising the issues that matter most to residents of Ayawaso East.
The NPP’s leadership acknowledged the results and reiterated its commitment to strengthening its support base ahead of future electoral contests. Party spokespeople highlighted that by-elections often reflect unique local dynamics and promised introspection and renewed engagement with voters.
Civil society groups and election monitors described the by-election as generally peaceful and carried out in accordance with Ghana’s constitutional framework. Few reports of irregularities were noted, and the Electoral Commission affirmed its satisfaction with the conduct of the poll.
With this outcome, Baba Jamal will take his seat in Parliament as the representative for Ayawaso East. His victory reinforces the NDC’s presence in the legislature and provides momentum for the party’s national ambitions.
Baba Jamal Mohamed wins Ayawaso East NDC parliamentary primary