Tight Security at Akwatia as NDC Holds Primary Ahead of By‑Election
ACCRA, GHANA — Security was visibly ramped up today, August 4, 2025, in Akwatia’s GCD Walker Park, as the National Democratic Congress (NDC) conducted its parliamentary primary to choose a candidate for the September 2 by-election. The deployment is part of efforts to maintain law and order amid increased political activity.
Primary Contestants & Security Landscape
- The aspirants are Henry Yiadom Boakye, former MP for Akwatia; Erasmus Koney Ali, assembly presiding member known as “Asanka Poyoyoo”; and Bernard Bediako Baidoo, a legal practitioner and constituency secretary.
Police officers patrolled the venue and surrounding areas throughout the voting process, with delegation arrival beginning at 7:00 a.m. and voting set to run until 4:00 p.m.
NDC Leadership & Confidence in Victory
- Addressing the media, Eastern Regional Chairman Mark‑Oliver Kevor reaffirmed the party’s readiness for the by-election, stating:
“The NDC is fully prepared and united behind this by-election. We believe Akwatia is ready for change, and our candidate will carry the constituency to victory on 2nd September.”
Political Context & Elevated Stakes
- The by-election follows the passing of former MP Ernest Yaw Kumi, whose December 2024 victory was earlier contested by the NDC.
- Both NDC and NPP are aggressively positioning themselves: NDC through internal unity, and NPP through a consensus-chosen candidate.
Security and Electoral Preparedness
- The tight security signal mirrors national concerns about electoral violence, particularly after the Ablekuma North rerun incidents.
- The NDC’s emphasis on peace and orderly conduct is aimed at winning public confidence and demonstrating responsible leadership ahead of a tightly contested by-election.
Source: My News Ghana
