The Government of Ghana has recalled its High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mohammed Ahmed, amid allegations linking him to electoral malpractice during a party primary election in Ghana.
The recall was ordered by President John Mahama and announced in a presidential statement released on Saturday. The directive took immediate effect, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs instructed to initiate the required diplomatic and administrative procedures.
According to the Presidency, the decision followed allegations of voter inducement and vote-buying during the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primary in the Ayawaso East Constituency. Ahmed, who was serving as Ghana’s envoy to Nigeria at the time, also contested in the primary.
Reports from the exercise alleged that items including television sets and foodstuffs were distributed to delegates, actions critics and observers described as inducements. Ahmed has, however, denied any wrongdoing, insisting the items were goodwill gestures and not meant to influence voters.
Explaining the recall, the Presidency said the move was taken to preserve the ethical standards expected of public officials and to prevent any perception of impropriety.
The government further cited concerns over a possible violation of Ghana’s Code of Conduct for political appointees, which governs the political activities of serving officials.
The Ayawaso East primary was held to select the NDC’s candidate for a parliamentary by-election following the death of the sitting member of parliament. Ahmed reportedly emerged as the winner, polling the highest number of votes among the contestants.
Meanwhile, the NDC has announced the commencement of an internal investigation into allegations of inducement and other irregularities during the primary. Party officials said the probe is aimed at safeguarding the credibility and integrity of the party’s internal democratic processes.
