Voting commenced today in the Ayawaso East Constituency located in the Greater Accra Region, where residents are flocking to polling stations to select a new Member of Parliament. This by-election is closely monitored, marking one of the most significant electoral events in recent times.
Polling began smoothly at the 113 designated stations, as the Electoral Commission (EC) oversees the process. Approximately 49,966 voters are registered to participate, with polls opening at 7 a.m. and set to close at 5 p.m.
A diverse lineup of five candidates is vying for the open seat, including key figures such as Baba Jamal, the former Ghana High Commissioner to Nigeria, representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Yussif Baba Ali from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is also in the running, alongside independent candidate Alhaji Mohammed Umaru Sanda, who recently cut ties with the NDC. Other contenders include Ibrahim Iddrisu from the Liberal Party of Ghana and another independent candidate, David Kannor.
The need for a by-election arose following the passing of the previous MP, Naser Toure Mahama, on January 4, 2026, after a brief illness. Mr. Toure, who had served four terms and was well-respected in the constituency, was re-elected in the 2024 general elections.
In his assurance to voters, Fred Tetteh, the Director of Research at the EC, confirmed that all necessary logistics, including biometric verification devices, ballot boxes, and electoral registers, are in place. Approximately 455 officers and 130 temporary staff have been deployed to ensure an orderly election.
Security measures are also prioritized today, with the Greater Accra Regional Police Command affirming the deployment of personnel at all polling locations to maintain a peaceful and transparent voting process.
Pre-election surveys indicated strong support for Baba Jamal, with Global InfoAnalytics projecting him to secure 75% of the valid votes. Yussif Baba Ali is expected to receive around 21%, while independent candidate Umaru Sanda Muhammed is projected at just 3%.
A last-minute legal challenge regarding the by-election was dismissed by a court on March 2, thus allowing the voting process to proceed uninterrupted.
Polling will conclude at 5 p.m., after which counting and collation of results are expected to begin, with outcomes anticipated later this evening. Stay tuned for updates on this critical electoral event.
