OSP probes NPP presidential and NDC Ayawaso East primaries over vote-buying allegations

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has launched investigations into alleged vote buying and vote selling during the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primaries and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primary in Ayawaso East.

In a public notice dated February 8, 2026, the anti-corruption body confirmed that the probe covers the NPP presidential primaries held on January 31, 2026, and the NDC parliamentary contest conducted on February 7, 2026.

According to the OSP, the investigations are focused on claims of inducement, vote trading, and the sources of funding behind the alleged corrupt practices.

“The investigations focus on allegations of vote buying, vote selling, and the sources of funding of the alleged corrupt acts,” the statement said.

The Office disclosed that it also initiated a real-time investigation during the NDC Ayawaso East primary following reports of electoral malpractice and intimidation.

It further alleged that during the exercise, one of the candidates, Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed, abetted some individuals to attack an officer of the OSP who was on duty monitoring activities linked to suspected vote buying and selling.

As a result, the OSP has opened an additional line of investigation into the alleged assault on the authorised officer while carrying out official responsibilities.

The anti-corruption agency reminded the public that electoral corruption remains a criminal offence under Ghanaian law, warning that acts such as vote buying, vote selling, intimidation, threats, and violence undermine democratic processes.

The Office said it will continue to pursue all credible allegations and take appropriate legal action where evidence supports prosecution.