Voters in the Ayawaso East Constituency are heading to the polls today, Tuesday, March 3, 2026, to elect a new Member of Parliament (MP), in a by-election closely watched nationally.
The contest was triggered by the untimely death of the sitting MP, Mahama Naser Toure, in January, leaving the seat vacant and prompting the Electoral Commission (EC) to schedule the by-election.
Registered Voters and Preparations
According to official figures, tens of thousands of registered voters are expected to cast their ballots across the constituency. Estimates vary, with some reports citing over 40,000 voters and others placing the number close to 50,000eligible electors.
The Electoral Commission has assured voters that all logistical arrangements are complete and that the by-election will be conducted in a free, fair and transparent manner. EC officials have urged voters to exercise their civic duty and warned against electoral malpractice.
Security and Peaceful Conduct Emphasized
Security agencies have deployed personnel across the constituency to ensure a peaceful voting environment. In the run-up to polling day, the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) called for calm and an incident-free election, urging all stakeholders to respect the rule of law.
Earlier in the week, the Ghana Police Service said it would bolster security by stationing officers in each electoral area to safeguard voters, electoral officials and materials.
Candidates and Party Stakes
Major political parties have concluded their internal processes and fielded candidates for the race:
* The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is represented by Baba Jamal, a former Ghanaian High Commissioner to Nigeria.
* The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is fielding Baba Ali Yussif as its parliamentary candidate.
* Several other candidates, including independents and those from smaller parties, are also on the ballot.
The NDC has described Ayawaso East as one of its strongholds, citing past election successes and internal polling projecting strong support for its candidate. The NPP, meanwhile, has urged residents to back its candidate as a fresh choice for representation.
Political Campaign and Tensions
Campaigns in the lead-up to the by-election were lively, with party leaders and supporters taking to the constituency to press their case. The NDC’s national organizer used rallies to challenge the NPP and rally support ahead of polling day, while the NPP leadership urged constituents not to “bring a stranger” into the seat.
What’s at Stake
Analysts say the by-election outcome could offer insights into broader national political trends as Ghana prepares for future general elections. A strong showing by either major party could be interpreted as a barometer of public sentiment.
Polls open across Ayawaso East this morning, and results are expected to be released later in the day.