Let Peace and Democracy Reign in Akwatia By-Election – Frimpong-Manso Institute Urges
The Frimpong-Manso Institute (FMI) has called for calm, peace, and strict adherence to democratic principles as voters in Akwatia head to the polls on Tuesday for a by-election.
The by-election has been necessitated by the sudden death of the sitting Member of Parliament, Ernest Kumi, of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP)
In a press statement, FMI noted that Ghana’s by-elections in recent memory have often been marred by violence, intimidation, and breaches of security.
“It is heart-rending to note that by-elections in modern memory have gained notoriety for brutal violent acts and naked security breaches. All this accounts for the downward trajectory of Ghana’s democracy,” the Institute said.
It stressed that the Akwatia by-election presents “a hugely critical opportunity” for the nation to rewrite this narrative.
“Akwatia’s by-election is a chance to change this ugly script and open a real chapter of democratic renewal,” the statement added.
The Institute commended the security agencies for raising their operational standards ahead of the polls. However, it cautioned that the real test lies in how effectively they prevent or respond to incidents on voting day.
“The security standards in Akwatia are above and beyond previous by-elections. But the real test of this security upgrade will reflect in how best the law enforcement agencies prevent or respond to any security challenges,” FMI observed.
On the political dynamics, FMI acknowledged the intense rivalry between the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) and NPP in Akwatia.
“We also see the inordinate determination of the NDC ruling and opposition NPP to win the Akwatia by-election. It is, however, our hope and prayer that democracy and peace will be the ultimate winner in the impending blockbuster contest,” the Institute said.
Akwatia’s Political History
Akwatia, one of the most hotly contested constituencies in the Eastern Region, has alternated between the NPP and NDC over the years. It is a stronghold that both parties view as strategically significant.
In 2008, the constituency gained national attention after the Electoral Commission ordered a re-run of voting in six polling stations due to irregularities.
That by-election was marred by chaos and heavy security presence, leaving a blot on Ghana’s electoral record. The NPP eventually retained the seat after a fiercely fought contest.
The NPP held Akwatia until 2020, when the NDC’s Henry Boakye Yiadom snatched it with a decisive victory, signaling a shift in voter sentiment.
In the 2024 election, Ernest Kumi of the NPP regained the seat but his untimely passing in July 2025 has now set the stage for another high-stakes battle, with both parties determined to reclaim or retain the constituency.
Observers believed the outcome of the by-election could serve as an indicator of political momentum for the 2028 general elections.
Source: Felix Nyaaba/expressnewsghana.com
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