Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Alhaji Baba Jamal, has officially filed his nomination to contest the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primary in Ayawaso East, saying his decision to return home is motivated by a sense of duty and service rather than personal gain.
Speaking to journalists after submitting his nomination forms at the NDC Greater Accra Regional Office, Mr Jamal confirmed that his documents had been duly received and accepted by party officials.
“I have officially presented my documents to the regional office. They have gone through them, accepted everything, and handed my copy back to me,” he said.
He disclosed that vetting of aspirants who picked and filed nomination forms is scheduled for the following day, and expressed appreciation to the media for their interest and coverage of the process.
The former Deputy Minister and one-time Member of Parliament is seeking a return to Parliament after serving Ghana in a diplomatic capacity in Nigeria. His decision has generated public discussion, with some questioning why he would step away from a high-profile international appointment to re-enter domestic politics.
Addressing the concerns, Mr Jamal said his decision is rooted in humanism and public service.
“My motivation is not materialistic. My motivation is humanism and service to people. I am motivated to come down and serve my people,” he stated.
While acknowledging the honour of serving as High Commissioner, he said he believes his presence is more urgently needed in Ayawaso East and within Ghana’s national political space at this time.
“Even though I am serving the nation out there, I believe there is a greater task on me to come and serve my people here. My presence here will be more useful to my people and to the nation,” he explained.
According to him, leadership often requires difficult choices.
“When duty calls, where you are needed more, you need to respond. I am responding to the several calls by my people to come down and serve them,” he said.
Mr Jamal assured residents of Ayawaso East of his commitment to integrity, hard work, and dedicated service if given the nod.
“Inshallah, I will continue to serve my people with all my heart and with all my strength,” he added.
Background
Baba Jamal previously served one term as Member of Parliament for the Akwatia Constituency in the Eastern Region. He was elected in the 2012 general election and served from January 2013 to January 2017, before losing his seat in the 2016 polls.
He has also contested the Ayawaso East NDC parliamentary primary before. In the 2024 primaries, he placed second, polling 309 votes against the incumbent MP, Nasser Mahama Toure, who secured 452 votes. The death of the sitting MP has necessitated a by-election in the constituency.
Mr Jamal’s latest bid is widely viewed as part of a political comeback, with the seasoned politician positioning himself as an experienced public servant ahead of the February 7, 2026, by-election. He has taken leave from his diplomatic post to focus on the campaign.
