OSP questions Baba Jamal over alleged vote-buying incident

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The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has interrogated NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Ayawaso East, Baba Jamal, following allegations of vote-buying linked to the party’s parliamentary primary that took place on Saturday, February 7.

Sources at the OSP confirmed that Baba Jamal was invited to assist with investigations after complaints were lodged alleging the inducement of voters during the said exercise.

The interrogation, the sources said, forms part of preliminary investigative steps and does not amount to a finding of guilt.

The allegations relate to claims that  TV sets, boiled eggs, and other items were allegedly distributed to influence voting outcomes, raising concerns about potential breaches of Ghana’s electoral and anti-corruption laws.

According to officials familiar with the matter, Baba Jamal is being investigated for alleged assault, obstructing OSP officers, and corruption.

He was subsequently granted self-recognisance bail after hours of interrogation. The OSP is yet to issue a formal statement detailing the specific nature of the allegations or indicating whether charges will be preferred against him.

However, officials say the investigation is ongoing and will be conducted in accordance with due process.

Baba Jamal has previously denied any involvement in vote buying, insisting that his actions were lawful and consistent with electoral regulations.

The development comes amid heightened public scrutiny of vote-buying practices following the recent internal party primary at Ayawaso East and growing calls for stricter enforcement of electoral laws to safeguard Ghana’s democratic processes.

The OSP has reiterated its commitment to investigating all allegations of corruption and corruption-related offences impartially, regardless of the individuals involved.