The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has strongly condemned reports of alleged inducement and vote-buying that marred its parliamentary primaries in the Ayawaso East constituency, held on Saturday, February 7, 2026.
The party described the reported conduct as a serious violation of its internal democratic values and has announced the immediate launch of investigations into the matter.
In a statement issued on the same day and signed by the General Secretary, Hon. Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the party’s national leadership expressed grave concern over what it termed widespread incidents that undermine the credibility of its candidate selection process.
“The attention of the national executives of the NDC has been drawn to the widespread incidents of inducement and vote buying allegedly perpetuated by some aspirants at the primaries in the Ayawaso East constituency today.”
Hon. Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, General Secretary o NDC
The party said these actions, if proven, directly contradict the principles upon which the NDC is built.
The leadership made it clear that such practices are unacceptable within the party’s internal electoral processes and threaten efforts to build a transparent and credible political organisation.
Condemnation of Acts Contrary to Party Values
The NDC did not mince words in distancing itself from the alleged conduct. In a firm rebuke, the party stated that it “vehemently condemn these actions in no uncertain terms,” stressing that they represent “an affront to the values and principles of the party and the reset agenda the party is championing.”
Party insiders say the strong language reflects growing intolerance within the NDC for practices that erode public confidence in democratic institutions, especially at a time when political parties are under increased scrutiny from the electorate.
The leadership emphasised that internal democracy is central to the party’s broader political vision and that any attempt to subvert that process will be dealt with decisively.
As part of its response, the NDC announced the immediate institution of a full-scale investigation to establish the facts surrounding the alleged vote-buying. The party said it would not hesitate to act once culpability is established.
Sources within the party indicate that the investigation will involve the examination of reports from constituency executives, observers, and other relevant stakeholders who monitored the conduct of the primaries.
Warning of Tougher Sanctions Ahead
Beyond the current investigation, the NDC used the opportunity to issue a stern warning to aspirants and party members ahead of future internal elections.
“The party also wishes to make it clear that in the future, more drastic sanctions would be taken including possibly cancelling elections, when such incidents come to the attention of the party.”
Hon. Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, General Secretary o NDC
Political analysts view this warning as a significant escalation in the party’s approach to enforcing discipline, suggesting a readiness to prioritise credibility over short-term political expediency.
The Ayawaso East constituency is regarded as a politically significant area, and the conduct of its primaries has attracted considerable public interest.
Allegations of vote-buying have reignited broader national conversations about the monetisation of internal party elections and its impact on Ghana’s democratic culture.
Observers note that how the NDC handles the current situation could influence public perception of its commitment to reform and ethical political conduct ahead of future national elections.
Commitment to Internal Democracy
In concluding its statement, the NDC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the integrity of its internal processes. Party officials insist that the decisive steps being taken are intended not only to address the immediate allegations but also to deter similar conduct in the future.
The leadership believes that restoring confidence in internal elections is critical to maintaining unity within the party and earning the trust of the Ghanaian electorate.
As investigations proceed, party members and the wider public will be watching closely to see whether the NDC’s actions match its strong words, and whether the outcome sets a new benchmark for accountability in Ghana’s party politics.
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