The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has strategically chosen Solomon Kwame Asumadu, CEO of Owuo Mining Company, as their candidate for the upcoming Akwatia by-election. This decision was not made lightly, but rather through a carefully orchestrated process involving extensive research and surveys conducted by a specially appointed committee. Initially, the committee grappled with the fundamental question of whether to hold a primary election. The results of their initial investigation strongly advised against it, leading the party’s National Executive Council to commission a further survey within the constituency itself. This second phase aimed to gauge the popularity and suitability of various potential candidates, including former MP Ama Sey, ultimately leading to the selection of Mr. Asumadu.
The selection process underscores the NPP’s commitment to a data-driven approach, prioritizing evidence-based decision-making over potentially divisive internal primaries. Recognizing the sensitive nature of a by-election, particularly one following the death of an incumbent MP, the party opted for a method designed to minimize internal friction and project an image of unity and decisive action. By conducting thorough research and engaging with the grassroots, the NPP sought to identify a candidate who resonated strongly with the electorate and possessed the best chance of securing victory in the upcoming by-election. This meticulous approach reflects a conscious effort to learn from past experiences and optimize their strategy for electoral success.
The announcement of Mr. Asumadu’s candidacy came during a press conference held on Monday, July 28th, presided over by Jeff Konadu, the chairman of the Special Committee and also the NPP Eastern Regional Chairman. Konadu detailed the extensive engagement undertaken by the committee, highlighting their interactions with a broad spectrum of stakeholders within the Akwatia constituency. These consultations included meetings with grassroots members, electoral coordinators, local police, traditional leaders, opinion leaders, and a wide cross-section of the community. The overwhelming consensus emerging from these discussions was to forgo a primary election and coalesce around a single candidate.
The committee’s findings revealed a strong preference for Mr. Asumadu within the constituency, prompting them to recommend his candidacy to the National Council. Upon receiving the committee’s report, the National Council endorsed the recommendation and authorized the committee to proceed with the formal acclamation of Mr. Asumadu as the party’s candidate. This process, emphasizing consensus and popular support, aimed to solidify party unity and present a strong, unified front to the electorate. The decision to bypass a primary election underscores the party’s confidence in Mr. Asumadu’s appeal and their strategic focus on securing a swift and decisive victory in the by-election.
The by-election was necessitated by the untimely passing of Ernest Yaw Kumi, the sitting Member of Parliament for Akwatia, who succumbed to a brief illness on Monday, July 7th. His death occurred mere weeks after a court ruling affirmed his victory in the 2024 parliamentary elections, adding a layer of complexity to the political landscape. This recent legal battle surrounding the previous election likely further influenced the NPP’s decision to avoid another potentially contentious primary, opting instead for a more streamlined and harmonious selection process.
The selection of Mr. Asumadu marks a new chapter for the NPP in Akwatia, as they navigate the challenging circumstances of a by-election following the loss of their incumbent MP. The party’s meticulous approach, emphasizing research, community engagement, and consensus-building, reflects their determination to retain the parliamentary seat and honor the legacy of the late Mr. Kumi. The upcoming by-election will undoubtedly be a crucial test of the NPP’s strategy and Mr. Asumadu’s ability to connect with the electorate. The outcome will not only determine the political representation of Akwatia but also offer valuable insights into the broader political dynamics within the region.
