An investigation by Starr News has exposed shocking allegations of vote buying during the ruling New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Presidential Primaries in the Ayensuano constituency.
The fierce contest between Kennedy Agyapong and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who secured 308 and 326 votes respectively, took a dark turn with the revelation of dubious financial transactions tied to vote buying.
Audios and videos obtained by Starf FM reveal party executives fighting over funds disbursed by Vice President Dr. Bawumia’s campaign office.
Each of the 669 delegates in Ayensuano allegedly received GH¢400, totaling an astonishing GH¢267,600 from Dr. Bawumia’s campaign team, while Kennedy Agyapong paid GH¢300 each.
An additional GH¢50,000 was disbursed for “operations” just a day before the crucial Presidential Primaries, further intensifying the controversy.
Accusations were directed at Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mark Okraku Mantey, and the Constituency’s first Vice Chairman, Asare Dankwah, for attempting to withhold and pocket the funds.
This financial mismanagement was blamed for the poor performance of Dr. Bawumia’s campaign team in Ayensuano.
One furious party executive pointed fingers at those responsible for managing Dr. Bawumia’s campaign, emphasizing the disastrous consequences of their actions.
Former Member of Parliament for Ayensuano, Samuel Ayeh Paye, contested the decision to withhold the operation money, asserting that it was meant for various campaign activities.
The constituency’s Youth Organizer, Prince Aboagye, defended the operation cash, stating it was used for legitimate campaign operations and challenged anyone to take the matter to court if they disagreed.
However, he later denied that the funds were intended to bribe delegates.
To resolve the confusion, Deputy Minister Mark Okraku Mantey decided to return the funds, emphasizing that they were meant for operations and not to bribe anyone. He urged those with claims to contact the regional office.
The scandal highlights a broader issue of vote buying in Ghana’s political landscape, raising concerns about the integrity of the country’s democracy.
In the wake of this scandal, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia emerged victorious in the NPP’s Presidential Primaries, securing the party’s nomination to lead them in the 2024 general election.
He will now face former President John Dramani Mahama, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s chosen candidate.