Ghana Recalls High Commissioner to Nigeria Over Electoral Malpractice Allegations
The Government of Ghana has taken decisive diplomatic action by recalling its High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mohammed Ahmed, following serious allegations linking him to electoral malpractice during a recent party primary election in Ghana.
Presidential Directive for Immediate Recall
Ghanaian President John Mahama ordered the recall through a presidential statement issued on Saturday, February 7. The directive took immediate effect, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs instructed to carry out all necessary diplomatic and administrative processes to facilitate the envoy's return.
The recall decision stems from allegations of voter inducement and vote-buying during the National Democratic Congress parliamentary primary in the Ayawaso East Constituency. Ahmed, who was serving as Ghana's diplomatic representative in Nigeria at the time, was also a contestant in this primary election.
Allegations of Voter Inducement During Primary
Reports emerging from the primary election indicated that various items including television sets and foodstuffs were distributed to delegates. Political opponents and independent observers characterized these distributions as clear inducements designed to influence voting outcomes.
Ahmed has maintained his innocence regarding these allegations, asserting that the distributed items were merely gestures of goodwill and were not intended to influence the voting process or compromise electoral integrity.
Upholding Ethical Standards in Public Service
The Ghanaian Presidency explained the recall decision by stating, "The move was necessary to uphold the ethical standards expected of public officers and to avoid any perception of impropriety." The government also expressed concerns about a potential breach of Ghana's Code of Conduct for political appointees, which specifically regulates the political activities of serving government officials.
Background of the Controversial Primary
The Ayawaso East primary was organized to select the National Democratic Congress candidate for a parliamentary by-election following the death of the sitting member of parliament. Despite the controversy surrounding the election process, Ahmed emerged as the winner of the contest, securing the highest number of votes among all aspirants.
Internal Investigation Launched by Political Party
Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress has announced it will conduct an internal investigation into allegations of inducement and other irregularities reported during the primary election. Party officials emphasized that this probe aims to protect the integrity of the party's internal democratic processes and ensure transparency in candidate selection.
This diplomatic development highlights the intersection of domestic political processes with international diplomatic relations, demonstrating how internal party matters can have significant implications for a nation's foreign representation and diplomatic standing.
