I will contest the Ayawaso East seat — Baba Jamal

Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Baba Jamal Mohammed Ahmed, has confirmed plans to enter the upcoming parliamentary by-election.

He said the move is driven by a desire to serve his constituents more directly.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen programme, Baba Jamal said that while his current diplomatic posting offers an opportunity to represent Ghana abroad, his passion remains rooted in community-level service, particularly in Ayawaso East.

“I appreciate my appointment as an ambassador because it allows me to serve the nation,” he said. “But returning to Parliament will give me the opportunity to support my people directly and change the development narrative in Nima.”

Baba Jamal traced his political involvement in the constituency to several years of sustained engagement, noting that his efforts have gone beyond electoral ambitions. He recalled his participation in previous parliamentary contests and the role he played in strengthening party structures on the ground.

“I started my political journey in 2017 and contested again in 2022,” he said. “In 2024, I committed significant resources to support the party’s campaign. I distributed 22 motorbikes to coordinators and led efforts that helped secure victory for our party.”

Beyond campaign activities, the High Commissioner highlighted social interventions he has supported within the constituency. He pointed to the establishment of the Mahama Center in Nima, which provides legal counselling services to residents who cannot afford legal assistance.

He also mentioned an interest-free loan scheme targeted at women traders and small-scale business owners. According to him, the initiative has benefited more than 400 women since its introduction in February last year.

Addressing concerns that his decision to contest could be motivated by personal gain, Baba Jamal rejected the suggestion, insisting that his connection to the area is longstanding and genuine.

“Some people may question my intentions, but my roots in Nima speak for themselves,” he said. “Representing the people in Parliament will allow me to make a meaningful impact, far beyond any material considerations.”

The declaration comes in the wake of the death of the Member of Parliament for Ayawaso East, Naser Toure Mahama, who passed away on January 6, 2026, after a period of illness.

The late MP, a four-term legislator, first entered Parliament in 2013 on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress. He was 60 years old and hailed from Kue in the Nkwanta South District of the Oti Region.

Following his passing, the Electoral Commission has announced that a by-election will be held in Ayawaso East on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, setting the stage for renewed political contest in the constituency.