Low voter turnout, declining party margins mark Ayawaso East by-election – AEI

The African Electoral Institute (AEI) has described the Ayawaso East parliamentary by-election as peaceful, though voter turnout was low.

The Institute also noted a significant decline in vote shares for both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) compared to the 2024 general elections.

In an observation statement issued on March 3, 2026, the Institute said it deployed monitors to all 113 polling stations in the constituency as part of its mandate to promote electoral integrity, transparency, and democratic accountability.

According to AEI, polls opened largely on time across centres monitored, including Alhaji Iddrisu Polling Stations 2 and 3, where voting began at 7:15 a.m. Observers reported that polling stations were adequately supplied with essential electoral materials, enabling voting to proceed without logistical setbacks.

“The voting process was generally peaceful, transparent, and well-organised. No major incidents of violence or disruption were reported in the areas observed,” the AEI statement noted.

The Institute also commended the visible deployment of the Ghana Police Service, observing that approximately 15 officers were stationed at each polling centre. “The Ghana Police Service maintained a visible and professional presence, contributing to calm and orderly proceedings,” the statement added.

However, AEI highlighted that voter turnout was generally low across several polling stations, particularly within parts of the Nima enclave. “This may be attributed to the observance of Ramadan and the fact that the election was conducted on a working day,” the statement explained.

Provisional results announced after collation from all 113 polling stations showed the NDC securing 10,803 votes, representing 63.33 percent of valid ballots cast. The NPP obtained 4,000 votes, representing 23.45 percent, while other candidates collectively polled 2,254 votes, accounting for 13.26 percent. A total of 122 ballots were rejected.

When compared with the 2024 general election results, both leading parties experienced declines in their vote shares. The NDC dropped from 70.85 percent to 63.33 percent, reflecting a 7.52 percentage point decrease. The NPP also saw its share fall from 29.15 percent to 23.45 percent, a decline of 5.7 percentage points.

AEI commended the electorate, election officials, security personnel, candidates, and political parties for contributing to a peaceful electoral environment. “We encourage continued civic education efforts to address voter apathy and strengthen democratic participation in future electoral processes,” the statement said.

The by-election was conducted to fill a vacancy in the 9th Parliament following the death of the incumbent Member of Parliament, Nasser Toure Mahama, in January this year. The Electoral Commission of Ghana, in accordance with provisions of the 1992 Constitution, scheduled March 3 for the election of a replacement.

Polls officially opened at 7:00 a.m. and closed at 5:00 p.m., with turnout widely reported to be very low across the constituency.