BY Grace Zigah
A Leaked documents suggesting that the National Democratic Congress government spent GH₵38.65 million on the Akwatia by-election have reignited debates about political financing and the use of public resources for electoral contests.
The total funds reportedly spent on by-elections and other operational activities this year amount to GH₵79.26 million, covering operations across multiple constituencies.
The Akwatia by-election was triggered by the death of NPP MP Ernest Yaw Kumi, who was embroiled in a legal battle with the ruling NDC over his parliamentary seat.
Critics especially the opposition members of the New Patriotic Party say the NDC mobilized heavily to capture the seat, reportedly using financial incentives and logistical support to influence outcomes.
During the by-election, electoral machines were deployed to clear roads and aid voter movement, though many were later removed from the site, raising questions about operational efficiency and accountability.
Meanwhile, in the Ablekuma North constituency, the Electoral Commission organized a rerun in selected polling stations following disputes in the original parliamentary elections.
The NDC ultimately captured the seat, overturning the lead previously held by the NPP, sparking controversy and claims of irregularities.
They say the NDC appears intent on reclaiming parliamentary seats lost to the NPP in the December 7 polls, with the Kpandai constituency emerging as its next target.
This has raised concerns about the potential use of state resources and administrative influence to sway electoral outcomes.
Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, MP for Assin South and Ranking Member on the Defence and Interior Committee in Parliament, has publicly raised concerns over the apparent use of by-elections as avenues for discretionary spending.
According to the leaked documents, expenditure breakdown includes:
Bawku and Walewale operations (1st phase): GH₵9.61 million
Bawku and Walewale operations (2nd phase): GH₵10.5 million
Sawla-Tuna-Kalba operations: GH₵19.45 million
Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun: GH₵1.05 million
Akwatia by-election operational expenses: GH₵38.65 million
The National Democratic Congress government has yet to comment on the leaked figures.
The opposition figures are calling for transparency and accountability, noting that such large expenditures could have been deployed to address pressing social needs, rather than focused narrowly on political contests.
