The Ayawaso Council of Zongo Chiefs has issued a strong warning against any attempt to annul the outcome of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primary held in Ayawaso East on February 7, cautioning that such a move could trigger unrest in the constituency.
The primary, which was won by former Ghana High Commissioner to Nigeria, Baba Jamal, has become the subject of controversy following allegations of vote buying. Claims emerged that the former deputy minister distributed television sets and offered inducements to delegates during the election — accusations he has firmly denied.
In response to the allegations, the NDC has constituted a committee to investigate the matter and determine the appropriate course of action. Meanwhile, calls have also been made by the Majority Caucus in Parliament for the primary to be annulled.
Addressing journalists on Monday, February 9, the Ayawaso Council of Zongo Chiefs urged the leadership of the NDC to respect what they described as the clear will of the delegates and the democratic choice of party members. The chiefs strongly expressed their support for Baba Jamal, insisting that he was duly elected through a credible and peaceful process.
They cautioned that overturning the results could destabilise the area and undermine peace in the community.
In a joint statement, the chiefs said:
“We, the chiefs, are deeply grateful that the campaign period and the election ended peacefully. We thank Almighty Allah for making this possible. All the contestants are our brothers and sisters, and we hold them in high regard and love them dearly.
In every election, not everyone can emerge victorious. Honourable Baba Jamal has won the election, and we warmly congratulate him on his victory. May Almighty Allah guide, protect, and bless him in his service to the people.
We appeal to everyone to support not only the winner but also those who did not win, because they are all our own. There are no divisions among us — we remain one people.”
The chiefs further pledged their commitment to working closely with Baba Jamal to promote unity and development in the community, particularly in Nima and surrounding areas.
“Now that Baba Jamal has emerged victorious, we are committed to working together with him toward a common goal: uniting our people, keeping Nima clean, ensuring tidy streets, clean gutters, and healthy surroundings for the well-being of all. Together, we can build a better and more united community.”
The Council called on all stakeholders within the NDC and the wider community to prioritise peace, unity, and stability as the party resolves the matter through its internal processes.
Researched by Divine Davis Gidi
@GhanaNews 24
