More than 40,000 registered voters in the Ayawaso East constituency are heading to the polls today, March 3, 2026, to elect a new Member of Parliament in a keenly contested by-election.
The poll, which commenced this morning, follows the death of the sitting MP, Mahama Nasar Toure, in January 2026, leaving the constituency without representation in Parliament.
Ahead of the contest, the major political parties concluded their internal selection processes. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) fielded Baba Ali as its candidate, while the National Democratic Congress (NDC) endorsed Baba Jamal, the former Ghana High Commissioner to Nigeria, as its flagbearer.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, March 2, the Electoral Commission’s Director of Research, Fred Tetteh, confirmed that all operational and security arrangements had been finalised to ensure the integrity and smooth conduct of the election.
He assured the public that preparations for the voting exercise were complete, and voters could expect a well-organised and orderly process.
“This by-election is a parliamentary election conducted under the first-past-the-post system. One vote can make a difference. If any fraudulent activity is proven, the Commission will take the necessary decision,” Mr Tetteh stated.
He issued a stern warning against electoral misconduct, particularly vote-buying, emphasising that anyone found guilty of such offences would face the full penalties prescribed by law.
Polling stations across the constituency opened early this morning, with security personnel deployed to maintain peace and order throughout the exercise. Results are expected to be declared later today or in the early hours of tomorrow, depending on the collation process.