The Ghana Centre for Election and Democratic Governance (GenCED) has condemned reported acts of vote-buying during the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primary in Ayawaso East, warning that such practices undermine internal party democracy and public confidence in Ghana’s electoral process.

According to GenCED, items such as 32-inch television sets and other material inducements were allegedly distributed to influence delegates’ votes, a practice the group says compromises the integrity of internal elections.

“These actions are not only unethical but illegal under Section 33(1) of the Representation of the People Law, 1992 (PNDCL 284), which criminalises the giving of money, gifts, or anything of value to induce a voter to vote or refrain from voting, or to secure the election of a candidate,” the statement read.

GenCED highlighted the broader consequences of vote-buying, noting that it entrenches money politics and disproportionately affects women, young women, and other marginalised groups who often lack the resources to compete in financially driven contests.

“It reinforces structural inequalities, discourages ethical leadership, and narrows political participation to those with economic power rather than ideas, competence, and public service commitment,” the group said.

While acknowledging the NDC’s announcement that it has launched an investigation into the alleged incidents, GenCED called for swift, transparent, and credible action, urging the party to apply appropriate sanctions to any candidates or actors found culpable, in line with party rules and national law.

The group further appealed to all political parties to act decisively to dismantle vote-buying networks within their structures, emphasising the need to enforce internal regulations consistently and without favouritism.

“Ghana’s democracy cannot thrive where leadership is bought rather than earned. Internal party elections must reflect the free will of delegates and create fair pathways for women and marginalised groups to participate meaningfully in political life,” GenCED concluded.