The Deputy National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Godwin Ako Gunn, has confirmed that the party will contest the Akwatia by-election scheduled for September 2, 2025.
The Akwatia parliamentary seat has been a focal point of legal contention following the December 2024 general elections. NPP’s Ernest Yaw Kumi was declared winner with 19,269 votes against NDC’s Henry Yiadom Boakye’s 17,206 votes, prompting Boakye to file an election petition citing irregularities.
A High Court in Koforidua responded in early January 2025 by issuing an interim injunction preventing Kumi from being sworn in . Nonetheless, he proceeded with the swearing-in on January 7, leading to a contempt ruling by the High Court in February and a bench warrant for his arrest.
On appeal, the Supreme Court stayed the sentencing in February, granted a contempt hearing in March, and ultimately quashed the High Court’s contempt conviction in June after determining the injunction was improperly issued.
Tragically, Ernest Yaw Kumi passed away on July 7, 2025, terminating his brief tenure and leaving the Akwatia seat open for the upcoming by-election.
Mr. Ako Gunn criticized the NPP’s decision not to contest the Tamale Central by-election, calling it a strategy to avoid defeat and garner sympathy ahead of Akwatia. He also warned against underestimating the NPP, citing instances like Ablekuma North, where the party initially declared non-participation yet still competed vigorously.
He recalled that the NDC also chose not to contest the Ejisu by-election following the demise of MP John Kumah, another instance of strategic withdrawal. He extended condolences to the family of Ernest Kumi and the families of the eight “gallant heroes” currently being mourned, and called on comrades to remain circumspect in their remarks during this delicate period.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
