The upcoming Akwatia by-election is shaping up to be one of the most fiercely contested political battles in recent memory, with both the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) intensifying their campaign messaging ahead of the September 2 poll.
The by-election was necessitated by the passing of Ernest Kumi, the NPP Member of Parliament for the constituency, whose sudden demise has shifted national attention to the Eastern Region.
The NDC has fielded its constituency secretary, Bernard Bediako, while the NPP is banking on its constituency treasurer, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, to retain the seat. Both parties see Akwatia—a known swing constituency—as a critical battleground that could serve as a bellwether for their national fortunes.
Campaign rhetoric has become heated in recent days. The NDC’s Eastern Regional Deputy Youth Organiser, Nathaniel Tetteh, accused the NPP of leaning heavily on the memory of the late MP rather than offering fresh policies for the constituency. The NPP, however, maintains that honouring Mr. Kumi’s legacy is central to continuing his development agenda.
Beyond the partisan exchanges, analysts note that the Akwatia by-election has wider implications for the political climate, as both parties seek momentum heading into the 2028 general elections.
To ensure peace, the Ghana Police Service has announced the deployment of officers before, during, and after the polls. Officers recently underwent a five-day training programme focused on election security, a move authorities say is aimed at safeguarding law and order and guaranteeing a credible outcome.
