The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has confirmed its participation in the Akwatia by-election scheduled for September 2, 2025, while accusing the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) of engaging in a political strategy to sway voter sentiment.
This is on the back of the decision by the NPP not to field a candidate in the upcoming Tamale Central Parliamentary by-election, following the tragic death of the area’s Member of Parliament, Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed, in the August 6 helicopter crash.
In a statement signed by NDC Deputy National Communications Officer, Godwin Ako Gunn, the party welcomed the NPP’s decision not to contest the Tamale Central by-election, describing it as “the best decision they have taken in recent times,” but suggested it was a calculated move to avoid defeat and court public sympathy ahead of the Akwatia polls.
“This is not the first time that a political party has refused to contest in a by-election. The NDC refused to contest in Ejisu after the demise of John Kumah. We also want to put on record that the Akwatia seat was in court and was not conclusive until the unfortunate demise of our brother Ernest Kumi,” the statement said.
The NDC also cautioned against taking the NPP’s word at face value, citing past instances where the ruling party had announced non-participation but later fielded candidates.
“In the Ablekumah North rerun, the NPP declared that they were not contesting, but in fact, they were the first to hit the grounds,” Mr. Gunn recalled.
The statement extended condolences to the family of the late Ernest Kumi, whose passing necessitated the by-election, as well as to the families of the “gallant eight heroes” being mourned by the nation.
Mr. Gunn further urged NDC members to be circumspect in their public statements during this period of grief. “Let us be mindful of our comments in this time of mourning,” he appealed.
The Akwatia by-election is expected to be one of the most closely watched political events ahead of the 2026 general elections.
