President John Dramani Mahama has ordered the immediate recall of Ghana’s High Commissioner to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed, following allegations of voter inducement during the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primaries in the Ayawaso East Constituency.
Mr. Baba Jamal, who is a candidate in the primaries, is alleged to have engaged in vote-buying activities.
Although similar allegations have been made against other contestants, the Presidency noted that Mr. Baba Jamal was the only serving public officer among the candidates.
In a directive issued to the Minister for Foreign Affairs signed by the Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, President Mahama stated that the decision was taken in line with the standards of conduct expected of public office holders.
The President stressed the need to protect the integrity of public office and to avoid any perception of impropriety or conflict with the Government’s Code of Conduct for Political Appointees.
The President also acknowledged a public statement by the General Secretary of the NDC indicating that the party has commenced its own investigations into the alleged irregularities that occurred during the primaries.
Despite the ongoing internal party processes, the President said it was necessary to act decisively in the public interest and without prejudice to any investigations.
The recall takes effect immediately, and the Minister for Foreign Affairs has been directed to take all necessary administrative and diplomatic steps to implement the decision.
