BY Issah Olegor
The political spotlight has turned to Akwatia in the Eastern Region as both the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) intensify preparations for a crucial by-election scheduled for September 2, 2025.
The contest, which follows the untimely passing of the constituency’s Member of Parliament, Ernest Yaw Kumi, is shaping up to be one of the most hotly contested by-elections in recent years.
NDC declares “battle-ready” stance
The NDC has expressed confidence in its chances, assuring its supporters that the party has invested heavily in its campaign machinery.
According to Rashid Tanko-Computer, Deputy Director of Elections and IT of the party, the NDC is leaving nothing to chance.
“We have invested a lot, and the NDC is battle-ready for Akwatia. We’re respecting the police with their structure, the plan they have put in place.”
“Nobody is going to bring pepper spray there. Everybody is going to be searched,” Tanko-Computer said in an interview on Channel One TV.
His comments reflect the party’s concerns about potential electoral disturbances, particularly in light of previous clashes during constituency elections across the country.
He also hinted at mistrust towards the NPP, alleging that their activists have a “history” of carrying items like pepper spray into electoral grounds.
NPP banks on Electoral Commission’s credibility
On the other side, the NPP is projecting calm and trust in Ghana’s electoral institutions.
The party’s Deputy General Secretary, Haruna Mohammed, has downplayed fears of manipulation and expressed confidence in the Electoral Commission’s (EC) ability to deliver a free and fair election.
“I have always had confidence in the Electoral Commission. They have conducted successful elections in Ghana since time immemorial.”
“The processes leading to elections have always been open and transparent. I have no doubt that the EC will conduct a fair election in Akwatia,” Haruna Mohammed assured.
His remarks appear aimed at easing tensions among party supporters and reinforcing the NPP’s image as a party committed to democratic processes.
The Electoral Commission itself has moved quickly to calm nerves ahead of the vote. Fred Tetteh, Deputy Director of Research at the EC, confirmed that logistics, nomination processes, and training for election officials have all been completed.
“Be assured that the Commission will do its utmost best in providing the logistics, arrangements, training and what it takes to have the election smooth and peaceful,” Tetteh stated.
The EC’s assurances are particularly important given that Ghana’s recent electoral history has been marred by isolated incidents of violence.
The Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun earlier saw skirmishes and even assaults on journalists, prompting calls for tighter security.
8 Suspects Arrested Over Ablekuma North
The Inspector General of Police, Christian Tetteh-Yohuno, has pledged a firm security presence in Akwatia.
Addressing journalists on Wednesday, he disclosed that eight suspects linked to the Ablekuma North violence had already been arrested and would soon face court.
“All these suspects will be put before the court. We will make sure that justice is served to those who did not act in a professional manner,” the IGP assured, signaling that law enforcement is determined to prevent a repeat of past disturbances.
Akwatia’s political significance
The Akwatia seat has long been a political battleground between the NDC and NPP, with both parties holding it at different points in Ghana’s Fourth Republic.
