Solomon Owusu, a leading member of the Movement for Change, has downplayed the significance of the upcoming Akwatia by-election, describing it as more of a contest for “bragging rights” than a crucial political battle.
Speaking on The Verdict show, hosted by Issac Addae on Starr 103.5 FM on Tuesday, August 26, Owusu said the by-election’s outcome would have little impact on the broader political balance, noting that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) already holds an overwhelming majority in Parliament.
“Akwatia by-election is for bragging rights; other than that, I don’t see how crucial it is for any of the two parties,” Owusu said. “Even if there was any of the parties that had to win it, then it should be the New Patriotic Party (NPP) just to reassure its support base that indeed they’re still a formidable party to reckon with. But from where I sit and with the history of by-elections, the NDC has an overwhelming majority – why will Akwatia want to be part of the minority?”
He argued that voter mobility and candidate quality could be key factors in the race, suggesting that many of those who vote in Akwatia are not permanent residents.
“Those voting at Akwatia are not permanent residents, so when it happens like this, the party that has to move them in and out has the upper hand,” he noted.
Owusu also questioned the NPP’s choice of candidate, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, expressing surprise at his selection.
“I’m surprised that at the end of the day the NPP settled on Solomon Kwame Asumadu because I’ve listened to him. I’m not hearing the quality of thoughts in terms of what he has for the people of Akwatia. Maybe on the grounds he understands what he’s doing, but politicians always say they’re working – when you say you’re working, what are you doing? You’re only talking to people to buy your message. Probably as we speak, he’s already sleeping,” Owusu remarked.
READ: “We’re poor because leadership is not helping” – Solomon Owusu
He concluded by saying he would not be surprised if the seat returns to the NDC, but acknowledged an NPP victory would still be acceptable.
“I will not be surprised if the seat reverses back to the NDC, but if the NPP wins, that’s fine,” he added.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Barbara Yeboah
