The National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) parliamentary candidate for the upcoming Ayawaso East by-election, Baba Jamal Ahmed Mohammed, has clarified that his decision to contest the seat is driven purely by a desire to serve humanity and contribute meaningfully to the development of the constituency.

Responding to criticisms and allegations questioning his motives, Baba Jamal dismissed claims that he is greedy or materialistic, insisting that his entry into the parliamentary race is not influenced by financial gain or personal benefit.

According to him, his record in public service reflects a long-standing commitment to serving people rather than pursuing wealth.

The former High Commissioner to Nigeria explained that, contrary to suggestions that he is seeking the seat for material advantage, his current and previous positions offered far greater financial rewards than what is available to a Member of Parliament.

He emphasised that his conditions of service as Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria were significantly more lucrative than those of an MP, making it illogical to suggest that he is motivated by money.

“My condition of service [as a high commissioner] is three times that of an MP, but I have decided to leave all and come and serve my people, so the question everybody should ask is, what is your motivation? My brothers and sisters, I am not motivated by material things. I am motivated by human service. I am not materialistic.

“Look at all these lageese. Every day I spend out there, I am giving $547. My telephone allowance is $600. At the end of the month, all that I buy from my $12,000 is food. And so I won’t even spend $1,000 on my food.”

He appealed to the people of Ayawaso East to focus on his track record, experience, and vision for the constituency rather than what he described as attempts by opponents to mischaracterise his intentions.

Baba Jamal explained that his goal is to leverage his experience in governance, diplomacy, and public administration to address the challenges facing residents, including youth unemployment, infrastructure deficits, and social development.

The NDC parliamentary candidate also reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive leadership and people-centred development, promising to work closely with traditional leaders, youth groups, women, and other stakeholders to advance the interests of the constituency if elected.

Baba Jamal is expected to officially file his nomination today at the Greater Accra Regional Office of the Electoral Commission, a key step in the lead-up to the Ayawaso East by-election.