Akwatia by-election: NDC office attacked, posters pulled down

Reports indicate that violence erupted in Akwatia during the by-election after suspected New Patriotic Party (NPP) supporters attacked the National Democratic Congress (NDC) office, heightening tensions in the constituency.

Violence erupted in the Akwatia by-election as the NDC office was targeted, with posters of the NDC candidate Bernard Bediako Baidoo torn down by a group believed to be supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Eyewitnesses said the attack appeared coordinated and created confusion among local residents.

According to locals, the Akwatia by-election at the NDC office was targeted involved men alleged to be part of a security detail linked to Effutu MP and Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin. The group moved in an organized fashion, overwhelming initial police efforts to control the situation.

Observers have warned that the Akwatia by-election, as the NDC office targeted, illustrates rising political tensions in the constituency. Police have since strengthened security, deploying additional personnel and setting up checkpoints to prevent further disturbances.

The by-election in Akwatia was triggered by the death of the area’s former MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi, on July 7, 2025. Voters are deciding between NPP candidate Solomon Asumadu and NDC candidate Bernard Bediako Baidoo, making the race highly competitive.

Authorities confirmed that security forces are monitoring the constituency closely and coordinating with local officials to maintain order. Electoral officials appealed to party supporters to remain calm and allow voters to exercise their rights without fear.

The Electoral Commission reiterated its commitment to a free, fair, and transparent by-election, assuring residents that all necessary measures are being taken to protect voters and maintain the integrity of the democratic process in Akwatia.

Residents of Akwatia have begun casting their ballots in a key by-election to elect a new Member of Parliament following the death of former MP Ernest Kumi.

Voting is underway in Akwatia, where over 50,000 registered voters are expected to cast their ballots. The by-election has drawn national attention as a key contest between the country’s two main political parties.

Election officials report that polling is proceeding smoothly in Akwatia, with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) fielding Bernard Bediako Baidoo and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) represented by Solomon Kwame Asumadu. Both candidates have conducted intensive campaigns in recent weeks, hosting rallies and receiving visits from party leaders and national executives.

Voting in Akwatia is taking place under heightened security measures. The Ghana Police Service has deployed more than 5,500 officers across the constituency to maintain law and order, safeguard voters, and prevent any acts of intimidation or disruption during polling.

The Electoral Commission has reassured political parties, candidates, and residents that the by-election will be conducted transparently and credibly. Special arrangements have been made to ensure the timely delivery of election materials, effective monitoring at polling stations, and swift collation of results.