Residents of Ayawaso East will return to the ballot box today, Tuesday, March 3, as more than 40,000 registered voters participate in a by-election to choose a new representative in Parliament.
The poll became necessary after the death of the sitting MP, Mahama Naser Toure, in January 2026, leaving the constituency without parliamentary representation.
Political parties have since concluded their internal selection processes ahead of the contest.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has endorsed Baba Ali as its candidate, while the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is fielding former High Commissioner to Nigeria, Baba Jamal, as its candidate.
Officials of the Electoral Commission (EC) say preparations for the exercise have been completed and that voters can expect a well-organised and orderly process.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, March 2, the EC’s Director of Research, Fred Tetteh, indicated that logistical and security arrangements had been finalised to safeguard the integrity of the election.
He cautioned individuals against engaging in electoral misconduct, especially vote-buying, noting that offenders would face sanctions if found culpable.
According to him, the election will be conducted under Ghana’s first-past-the-post system, where the candidate who secures the highest number of valid votes cast is declared winner, regardless of the margin.
“This by-election, which is a parliamentary type of election, is first-past-the-post. So, one vote can make a difference, so when it is proven that a fraudulent activity took place, then the commission will make a decision,” he said.
Security agencies have also deployed personnel throughout the constituency to maintain calm and ensure that voting proceeds without disruption.
Source: Myjoyonline.com
