The political spotlight is turning to the Akwatia constituency as preparations intensify for a by-election following the passing of the sitting Member of Parliament. While the National Democratic Congress (NDC) heads into a competitive internal contest to choose its next parliamentary candidate, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has taken a different route—opting for consensus over contest.
NDC Set for Heated Primary
Three aspirants have officially picked nomination forms to battle it out in the NDC parliamentary primaries scheduled for Monday, August 4. The contenders include:
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Henry Boakye, a former Member of Parliament seeking a comeback,
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Bernard Bediako Baidoo, the incumbent NDC Constituency Secretary, and
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Erasmus Koney Ali, a newcomer to the parliamentary race.
According to the party’s timetable, nominations close on Wednesday, July 30, followed by vetting and balloting on Thursday, July 31.
The primary is expected to test the party’s grassroots dynamics as it seeks a strong candidate to reclaim or retain the seat amid heightened political attention.
NPP Avoids Primary, Picks Solomon Asumadu by Consensus
In contrast, the opposition NPP has taken a more unified approach by settling on Solomon Kwame Asumadu, CEO of Owuo Mining Company, as its candidate for the by-election. The party’s Eastern Regional executives said the decision followed “broad-based consultations” that led to a consensus, rejecting calls for a competitive primary.
This move, according to party insiders, is aimed at presenting a united front in what is expected to be a high-stakes electoral contest.
Speculations Quashed over Late MP’s Widow
Earlier rumours suggesting that Mrs. Mavis Kumi, widow of the late MP, was being considered as the NPP’s candidate were firmly denied. Eastern Regional Chairman Jeff Konadu dismissed such reports as “false and misleading,” insisting the party’s decision-making process was guided by consultation, not sentiment.
High Stakes in Akwatia
With both major parties now moving forward in their candidate selection processes, Akwatia is shaping up to be a key battleground in the coming weeks. For the NDC, internal competition could either energize its base or expose divisions. For the NPP, consensus could provide cohesion—but only if the chosen candidate galvanizes voter support.
The by-election will be closely watched as a potential bellwether ahead of the 2026 general elections, offering clues about party strength and public sentiment in the Eastern Region.
