The National Democratic Congress has intensified its campaign ahead of the Ayawaso East parliamentary by-election, with the party’s National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, leading a high-profile engagement in Nima and surrounding communities.
Addressing party faithful, community leaders, and youth groups, the NDC Chairman projected confidence of victory, describing the constituency as a long standing bastion of the party since the advent of Ghana’s Fourth Republic.
The by-election, scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, 2026, follows the death of the sitting Member of Parliament, Mahama Naser Toure, in January, 2026 after a short illness.
With nearly 50,000 registered voters expected to cast their ballots across 113 polling stations, the contest has drawn national attention, not only because of its political significance, but also because of the intensity of campaigning in the densely populated urban constituency.
Mr Asiedu Nketiah, popularly known as General Mosquito, emphasized party unity as the central pillar of the NDC’s strategy. He told supporters that maintaining cohesion was critical to securing what he described as a resounding victory.
“Since 1992, we have never lost elections in Nima: I did not need to come, but we need to maintain that record”.
NDC National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah
He stressed that while his presence was not strictly necessary given the party’s historical strength in the constituency, it was important for national leadership to stand with grassroots supporters to energize the base.
The chairman urged party members to turn out in large numbers on election day and to mobilize undecided voters with messages focused on development, inclusion, and continuity.
Warning Against Independent Bids
A notable feature of Mr Asiedu Nketiah’s address was his caution to individuals contesting the election outside the party’s structure. Without mentioning names directly, he warned that running as an independent against one’s own party often leads to political isolation and long term setbacks.
He argued that political careers are best built through collective effort rather than personal ambition, adding that the NDC’s constitution does not permit parallel political adventures that undermine party unity.
He appealed to community elders and opinion leaders to advise independent candidates to reconsider their decisions, insisting that unity within the party ultimately benefits both the constituency and the broader democratic process.
The NDC’s parliamentary candidate, Baba Jamal, has been at the center of the campaign following his victory in the party’s primary held on February 7. He secured 431 votes, narrowly defeating Hajia Amina Adam, who polled 399 votes in a closely contested internal election.
Although the primary was initially clouded by allegations of vote buying, Mr Jamal has since pledged to heal divisions within the party and work closely with all stakeholders.
At the rally, he reiterated his commitment to inclusive leadership, promising to continue the developmental legacy of the late Mahama Naser Toure while addressing pressing issues such as youth unemployment, sanitation, and education.
A Crowded Field of Contenders
The Ayawaso East by election features five candidates, reflecting a highly competitive race. In addition to Baba Jamal of the NDC, the ballot includes Yussif Baba Ali of the New Patriotic Party, Ibrahim Iddrisu of the Liberal People’s Party, and two independent candidates, Alhaji Mohammed Umaru Sanda and David Kannor.
Political analysts note that while the NDC remains the dominant force in the constituency, the presence of multiple candidates could test voter loyalty, especially among younger voters seeking alternative voices. Nevertheless, the party’s leadership remains confident that its strong grassroots network and historical performance will prevail.
The Electoral Commission of Ghana has assured the public of its readiness to conduct a credible and peaceful poll. According to the Commission, all necessary arrangements have been completed, including the recruitment and training of electoral officials, as well as the preparation of ballot papers and biometric verification devices.
To ensure security, the Ghana Police Service has announced plans to deploy 80 officers per polling station. The heavy security presence is intended to deter electoral violence and guarantee a smooth voting process, particularly in a constituency known for its vibrant political activity.
Historical Context and Party Confidence
In the 2024 general election, the late Mahama Naser Toure secured the Ayawaso East seat with more than 70 percent of the valid votes cast, reinforcing the constituency’s reputation as an NDC stronghold.
Party officials argue that this strong showing reflects deep rooted trust between the NDC and the electorate, built over decades of political engagement and social advocacy.
Mr Asiedu Nketiah told supporters that the upcoming by election is not merely about retaining a parliamentary seat, but about reaffirming the party’s bond with the people of Ayawaso East. He urged vigilance, discipline, and peaceful conduct throughout the campaign and on election day.
As March 3 approaches, the NDC’s rally in Nima underscores the party’s determination to secure another emphatic victory. For party loyalists, the message from leadership is clear: unity, mobilization, and respect for party structures remain the pathway to electoral success in Ayawaso East.
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