The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has pushed back against growing pressure to overturn the results of its Ayawaso East parliamentary primary, firmly backing Baba Jamal Mohammed Ahmed as its candidate despite allegations of vote inducement.

Appearing on Eyewitness News on Wednesday, February 11, Deputy National Organiser of the party, Elikem Kotoko, said the NDC’s leadership had acted responsibly and within the bounds of its internal rules after reviewing the controversy surrounding the primary.

According to him, the party’s response — including the recall of Baba Jamal from his diplomatic post — demonstrates a clear commitment to fairness and accountability rather than indifference.

“We should actually be commended for the actions we have taken,” Kotoko said. “The President’s response shows that the party is being built on solid principles. He ensured Baba Jamal was recalled and also indicated that any government appointee seeking to contest would face similar consequences to ensure equity.”

Kotoko stressed that party leadership carefully weighed the situation and considered the broader impact on party unity and discipline before deciding to maintain Baba Jamal as its flagbearer for the by-election.

The debate follows reports from the February 7 Ayawaso East primary that alleged some aspirants distributed items to delegates, igniting a national conversation about vote-buying and ethical standards within political parties.

While some critics have argued that the results should have been annulled to send a strong signal against inducement, the NDC maintains that its internal mechanisms were activated and appropriate measures taken, insisting that the party remains focused on preparing for victory in the upcoming by-election.

Adding to the criticism, IMANI Africa President Franklin Cudjoe questioned the NDC’s decision, expressing concern that the party’s long-standing public opposition to vote-buying could be undermined if allegations are not met with tougher sanctions.

Despite the backlash, NDC leadership says it is pressing ahead with efforts to consolidate its base and strengthen party structures as the Ayawaso East by-election draws closer.