The Zongo Institute for Development (ZID) has called on the leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to investigate and sanction persons responsible for the secret filming and circulation of images of parliamentary aspirant Hajia Amina Adam during the party’s vetting process.
According to the institute, the actions of the vetting committee members constituted a breach of established party protocols and a violation of the dignity of Hajia Amina Adam, who is currently observing widowhood rites following the death of her husband, the late Member of Parliament for Ayawaso East, Mahama Naser Toure.
Hajia Amina Adam, who is traditionally expected to remain out of public view for 40 days, had earlier requested to be vetted virtually. However, her request was denied by the party’s Functional Executive Committee, compelling her to appear in person for the vetting on January 28, 2026.
During the in-person vetting, images and videos of the aspirant were secretly recorded and later circulated on social media, where they quickly went viral and attracted public criticism and concern.
In a statement issued on Thursday, January 29, the Zongo Institute for Development condemned the incident, stating that it had exposed Hajia Amina Adam to unnecessary public ridicule and emotional distress, while also raising concerns about the adequacy of administrative and security measures within the party’s internal electoral processes.
“The Zongo Institute for Development (ZID) has followed with heavy hearts and deep concern the recent events surrounding the vetting of Hajia Amina Adam, aspirant for the Ayawaso East bye-election and widow of the late Member of Parliament, Hon. Nasser Mahama Toure, which happened on Wednesday, 28th January 2026 at the National Democratic Congress Greater Accra Regional Office.”
“At the onset, ZID finds it difficult to reconcile why a request for virtual vetting was denied, especially when such precedents were established during the COVID-19 pandemic and have been extended to candidates who are merely abroad for business or personal reasons.”
“We think that Hajia Amina Adam’s circumstances, keeping in mind her current situation, has far more weight than mere logistical convenience, and her request for virtual vetting was an effort to minimize public exposure.”
The institute further noted that clear instructions were given at the vetting venue prohibiting any form of photography or videography out of respect for the aspirant’s state of mourning.
“Despite the denial of a virtual option, Hajia Amina Adam showed immense courage and respect for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) by appearing in person at the Regional Head Office. It was clearly understood and openly announced at the vetting grounds that, out of respect for her current state of mourning, no photography or videography was permitted.”
“While the media and general observers showed remarkable empathy and strictly adhered to this protocol, unfortunately we are utterly dismayed to learn that individuals from within the party who were authorized to supervise and conduct the vetting process, people who were entrusted with the fairness of this process, failed to ensure that this protocol was observed.”
ZID described the circulation of the images as deeply troubling, suggesting deliberate targeting and a failure of internal safeguards.
“Even more distressing is the fact that this image was subsequently shared on social media, exposing her to public ridicule during one of the most vulnerable periods of her life. Also troubling looks intentional, as messages allude to criticism, as it was only Hajia Amina Adam’s picture that was taken and shared.”
“This act is not merely a breach of protocol; it is a profound violation of the dignity of a grieving woman and a disregard for the religious values held dear by the Zongo community and Muslims at large. Also, this suggests a weak administrative and security system in the conduct of internal elections.”
The Zongo Institute for Development therefore called on the party leadership to take immediate steps to address the incident, including identifying and sanctioning those responsible, ensuring fairness and respect for diversity during upcoming primaries, and reaffirming the party’s commitment to protecting the dignity of its members.
“We stand in solidarity with Hajia Amina Adam and all women who seek to serve their communities while remaining steadfast in their faith. We appeal to the public and the party leadership to treat this matter with the sensitivity and gravity it deserves.”
