NDC Strengthens Majority Grip on Parliament with 189 Seats as Speaker Swears In Akwatia and Tamale Central MPs
Parliament on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, witnessed the swearing-in of two newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs) for the Akwatia and Tamale Central constituencies following recent by-elections.
The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, administered the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of a Member of Parliament to Bernard Bediako Baidoo, who won the Akwatia by-election, and Alidu Seidu Mohammed, who was elected unopposed in the Tamale Central by-election.
In a formal communication to Parliament, the Electoral Commission (EC), through its Chairperson, Mrs. Jean Mensa, submitted the certified election results for the two constituencies.
For the Akwatia Constituency, the EC’s report stated: “Please find attached the return of election for the Akwatia Parliamentary by-election held on Tuesday, 2nd September 2025.”
According to the accompanying writ, Bernard Bediako Baidoo of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) was duly elected after polling 18,199 votes, defeating Solomon Kwame Asumadu of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who garnered 15,285 votes, while Patrick Osu secured 32 votes.
In Tamale Central, the EC confirmed that Alidu Seidu Mohammed, the NDC candidate, was elected unopposed following the close of nominations.
“The Electoral Commission hereby informs you that Alidu Seidu Mohammed, the parliamentary candidate for the NDC, has been elected unopposed. Please find attached the writ of election for the Tamale Central parliamentary by-election,” the letter from the EC Chairperson stated.
Speaking after administering the oaths, Speaker Bagbin congratulated the new MPs and urged them to approach their work with humility, diligence, and respect for parliamentary procedures.
He advised, “Whether you are a professor, a farmer, or from any background, you have come to a new school — and that school starts from church. There is a lot to learn. Your seniors will do the usual thing guide you through the processes. Respect them, learn from them, and perform your duties well.”
He further reminded them that service in Parliament demands dedication to the Ghanaian people and a commitment to uphold the dignity of the House.
With the swearing-in of the two legislators, the Ninth Parliament of the Fourth Republic now has its full complement of 276 members. The governing NDC currently commands an absolute majority of 189 seats, while the NPP holds 83, with four independents completing the composition of the House.
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