The Akwatia constituency in Ghana’s Eastern Region held a crucial parliamentary by-election on Tuesday, amidst tight security and assurances of a peaceful voting process. The by-election, triggered by the unfortunate demise of the incumbent NPP MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi, became a focal point of national political attention, serving as a litmus test for both the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the lead-up to the 2028 general elections. Madam Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, the Eastern Regional Minister and chair of the Regional Security Council, emphasized the comprehensive security measures implemented to ensure smooth and incident-free voting. Heavy police deployment, vehicle searches, and rigorous monitoring were in place to maintain order and prevent potential disruptions. Early indications suggested a positive voter turnout, fostering confidence in a credible electoral outcome.
The contest centered around two prominent figures: Solomon Kwame Asumadu, a licensed small-scale miner and All Nations University graduate representing the NPP, and Bernard Bediako Baidoo, a lawyer and constituency secretary vying for the seat on the NDC ticket. Both parties campaigned vigorously, recognizing the symbolic importance of Akwatia, a constituency known for its unpredictable voting patterns and its historical tendency to swing between the NPP and NDC since the dawn of Ghana’s Fourth Republic in 1992. The election result, therefore, held significant weight in gauging the relative political strength and popularity of the two major parties as they prepare for the upcoming 2028 general elections.
Voting commenced promptly at 7:00 a.m. across all 119 polling stations within the Akwatia constituency, with approximately 52,000 registered voters eligible to exercise their franchise. The Electoral Commission ensured the timely distribution of election materials, with all polling stations within Akwatia township fully operational by 6:00 a.m. Initial reports indicated a brisk start to the voting process, with a steady stream of voters arriving at polling centers from the early hours. Observers from both political parties, as well as independent electoral monitors, were present to oversee the process and ensure transparency and fairness.
The heavy security presence, comprising 5,500 police officers deployed strategically throughout the constituency, underscored the authorities’ commitment to maintaining peace and order. Vehicle checkpoints and thorough searches were conducted at entry points to Akwatia, demonstrating a proactive approach to prevent any potential security breaches or attempts to disrupt the electoral proceedings. Madam Awatey’s tour of various polling stations early in the morning served to reinforce the message of safety and encourage voters to participate actively in the democratic process without fear of intimidation or violence.
Early assessments by both political parties and election observers pointed towards a generally smooth and well-organized voting exercise. Mr. Evans Nimako, the Director of Elections for the NPP, commended the Electoral Commission and security agencies for their effective management of the by-election. He noted the absence of reported irregularities and expressed optimism that the process would continue without any major incidents, upholding the principles of free and fair elections. The Electoral Commission also reiterated its commitment to ensuring a transparent and credible by-election, emphasizing the importance of upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
The Akwatia by-election garnered significant national attention, with political analysts and commentators highlighting its implications for the broader political landscape. The constituency’s history as a swing seat made the outcome particularly intriguing, as it offered valuable insights into the evolving dynamics of voter preferences and the potential shifts in political allegiances. Both the NPP and NDC invested considerable resources and effort in campaigning, recognizing the symbolic value of securing a victory in Akwatia. The results of the by-election were eagerly anticipated, not only for their immediate impact on the parliamentary representation of the constituency but also for their potential to influence the strategies and narratives of both parties in the run-up to the 2028 general elections.
