NDC releases guidelines for Akwatia parliamentary primaries

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially announced guidelines for its upcoming parliamentary primaries in the Akwatia Constituency in the Eastern Region.

In a statement issued on July 25, 2025, and signed by the party’s General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the NDC outlined a clear process to guide aspirants through the nomination and selection stages. The announcement follows the declaration of a by-election in the constituency and forms part of the party’s effort to ensure an orderly and transparent internal contest.

According to the statement, interested aspirants are required to pick up nomination forms from the party’s Eastern Regional Office. Completed forms must be submitted to the same office. The party stressed that aspirants will only receive the official delegates’ list after verification that the filing fee has been paid into the party’s designated bank account. Cheques and bankers’ drafts will not be accepted; only direct deposits will be recognized.

As part of efforts to promote inclusivity and level the playing field, the party has announced a 50 percent reduction in filing fees for female aspirants and persons living with disabilities. The NDC emphasized that all activities surrounding the primaries must be conducted in a spirit of unity, decency, and fairness. A detailed timetable for the primaries has been provided to all relevant stakeholders, who are expected to adhere strictly to the outlined schedule.

While the NDC finalizes its internal processes, the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has already settled on its candidate. Mr. Solomon Kwame Asumadu, the NPP’s Constituency Treasurer, was unanimously elected by constituency executives as the party’s parliamentary candidate for the upcoming by-election.

Mr. Asumadu is known within the NPP party for his years of loyal service and financial contributions.

The upcoming by-election became necessary following the sudden passing of the sitting NPP Member of Parliament, Ernest Kumi, on Monday, July 7, 2025. Mr. Kumi, a first-time MP, is reported to have died from a cardiac attack, just days after completing his final law examinations. His death has left a vacuum in the Akwatia seat, prompting both major political parties to move swiftly to position strong candidates for what is expected to be a closely fought race.

The Akwatia Constituency holds a reputation as one of Ghana’s most keenly contested and politically dynamic seats. Over the years, electoral power in the area has shifted between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), reflecting its status as a true swing constituency.