The Akwatia constituency by-election, held on September 2, 2025, concluded with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Bernard Bediako, emerging victorious. Bediako secured a decisive win with 18,199 votes, representing 54.30% of the total valid votes cast. His main contender, Solomon Kwame Asumadu of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), garnered 15,235 votes. The total valid votes tallied across the constituency’s 119 polling stations were 33,516, with 303 ballots rejected. This electoral contest became necessary following the unfortunate demise of the incumbent Member of Parliament, Ernest Kumi, earlier in the year. The by-election captured significant national attention due to Akwatia’s historical reputation as a swing seat, making it a key battleground for both the NDC and the NPP.
The build-up to the by-election witnessed a surge of political activity in the constituency. Both major parties invested heavily in campaigning, deploying senior party officials and activists to mobilize support for their respective candidates. The contest transformed into a high-stakes race, not just to fill the vacant parliamentary seat but also to gauge the prevailing public sentiment ahead of the 2028 general elections. This heightened focus amplified the importance of the outcome, with both parties eager to secure a victory and gain momentum for future electoral battles. The intensive campaigning reflects the strategic significance of Akwatia within the broader political landscape.
On election day, a substantial security presence was deployed to ensure a peaceful and orderly process. The Ghana Police Service deployed over 5,500 officers across the constituency to maintain law and order and prevent potential disruptions. This robust security deployment proved largely effective in deterring acts of voter intimidation and ensuring a relatively calm atmosphere. Despite the overall peaceful conduct, isolated incidents were reported, including the apprehension of an individual for vandalizing campaign posters at a polling station. The proactive security measures aimed to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process and prevent any escalation of tensions.
Furthermore, the heightened security measures and rigorous monitoring played a significant role in curbing allegations of vote-buying, a practice some residents had openly solicited in the days leading up to the election. While such practices are often a concern in closely contested elections, the strong security presence and vigilance of election officials helped mitigate these risks. However, the voter turnout was notably lower compared to the 2024 general elections, a trend typically observed in by-elections, often attributed to constituents being engaged in their regular work activities on weekdays.
In the lead-up to the official results, both candidates expressed confidence in their prospects. Solomon Asumadu of the NPP cited the peaceful voting environment as a positive indicator, while Bernard Bediako of the NDC emphasized the resonance of his campaign message focused on development and party unity with the electorate. As provisional results started to emerge, indicating a lead for the NDC, celebrations erupted amongst sections of their supporters. However, the party leadership urged restraint and cautioned against premature celebrations, emphasizing the importance of awaiting the official declaration from the Electoral Commission.
The Akwatia by-election served as a critical political barometer, providing insights into the evolving voter dynamics in the lead-up to the 2028 general elections. The NDC’s victory could be interpreted as a sign of shifting public opinion and a potential resurgence of their support base. For the NPP, the loss necessitates a thorough analysis of their campaign strategy and a re-evaluation of their approach to connect with the electorate. The outcome holds significant implications for both parties, shaping their preparations and influencing their strategies for the upcoming general elections. The Akwatia by-election, therefore, transcends a simple contest for a single parliamentary seat, representing a crucial litmus test of public sentiment and a preview of the intense political battles to come.
