Pressure group Election Watch Ghana, is urging the Electoral Commission (EC) to push back the September 2, 2025, Akwatia by-election, citing the recent loss of prominent political figures, including Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Director of Elections and IT for the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
In a statement issued on Monday, August 11, the group said the death of Dr. Omane Boamah — a key member of the EC’s Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) — and seven others in a helicopter crash in Adansi-Akrofuom has created extraordinary circumstances that warrant a rescheduling of the poll.
“In light of the recent passing of 8 gallant citizens which including Dr. Omane Boamah, Director of Elections for the National Democratic Congress, Election Watch Ghana respectfully requests that the Electoral Commission (EC) consider postponing the upcoming Akwantia by-election scheduled for September 2, 2025.”
The statement pointed to Article 296 of the 1992 Constitution and Section 13 of the Elections Act, 2002 (Act 651), which empower the EC to exercise discretion and adjust electoral timelines when necessary.
“Given the circumstances, a postponement would be in line with this constitutional provision, ensuring that the electoral process is conducted without undue prejudice to any party,” the group stated.
Election Watch Ghana also requested an emergency IPAC meeting to discuss a possible postponement, stressing that the EC has both the legal mandate and moral obligation to ensure a level playing field for all political parties.
The August 6 crash claimed the lives of eight distinguished Ghanaians: Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
Two victims, both Muslims, were buried on Sunday, August 10, at the Military Cemetery in Accra, in line with Islamic rites.
The government has announced a state funeral on Friday, August 15, and opened a public tribute platform for Ghanaians to honour the deceased.
Below is a copy of the statement
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
