By Daniel Bampoe
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has intensified its campaign efforts in the Akwatia constituency ahead of the crucial September 2 by-election, with two of its most prominent figures, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Bryan Acheampong, joining forces to canvass for votes for the party’s candidate, Solomon Kwame Asumadu.
On Sunday, former Vice President Dr. Bawumia embarked on a house-to-house campaign, engaging directly with residents and urging them to rally behind Solomon Asumadu.
As part of his tour, he paid a courtesy call on the Kusiman Hene, Nana Ntiamoah Kusi Boadu, to seek traditional blessings and demonstrate respect for the local leadership.
Similarly, the former Minister of Food and Agriculture and Member of Parliament for Abetifi, Bryan Acheampong, joined the NPP candidate in a spirited session of worship and prayer with supporters.
The gathering was intended not only to energize the grassroots but also to reaffirm the party’s reliance on faith and unity as it battles to retain the seat.
Both Dr. Bawumia and Bryan Acheampong are key figures within the NPP, and their joint presence in Akwatia is being interpreted as a signal of the party’s seriousness about consolidating its base.
It also highlights the broader political dynamics within the NPP, as the two men are both in the running to become the party’s next flagbearer.
Akwatia By-Election Background
The by-election in Akwatia was necessitated by the death of the sitting MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi of the NPP.
His passing has opened a new chapter in what has historically been a fiercely contested constituency between the NPP and the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
In past elections, Akwatia has swung between the two major parties, making it one of the most watched battlegrounds in the electoral map.
The NPP, buoyed by its victory in the 2024 general elections, is keen to maintain its hold, while the NDC sees the by-election as an opportunity to reclaim lost ground.
NPP’s United Front
The NPP’s campaign in Akwatia has in recent weeks been marked by a strong show of internal unity.
Earlier this month, the party organized a massive Unity Walk that drew thousands of supporters and brought together former aspirants who had once competed for the candidacy.
They all pledged support for Solomon Kwame Asumadu, signaling that internal rivalries have been shelved in pursuit of a common goal.
Party executives argue that the united front gives them a competitive advantage, especially in light of recent surveys suggesting that the NDC candidate has a slight lead.
The NPP has dismissed these polls as inaccurate and has doubled down on grassroots mobilization.
Looking Ahead
With just a day to the by-election, the stakes are high. Security has already been reinforced in the constituency, with over 5,000 police personnel deployed nationwide to oversee by-elections and prevent disturbances.
Both the Peace Council and the Electoral Commission have called for calm, transparency, and issue-based campaigning.
