Nominations Open for By-Election After MP’s Death
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) opened nominations for the Akwatia Constituency by-election on July 28, 2025, with forms available at the Eastern Regional Office until July 30, as announced by General Secretary Fifi Kwetey in a July 25 press release. The primaries, set for August 4, will select a candidate for the September 2 by-election.
The seat became vacant following the death of NPP MP Ernest Kumi from a short illness. The Electoral Commission scheduled nominations for August 5–7, per NDC Deputy Director of Elections Rashid Tanko Computer, after an IPAC meeting. Female aspirants and persons with disabilities receive a 50% filing fee reduction, payable to the NDC’s UMB account.
Kwetey urged aspirants to adhere to the timetable and maintain decorum. The delegates’ list will be provided upon verification of fees. The NDC, holding a two-thirds parliamentary majority, aims to capture the seat, historically competitive with vote margins below 5% since 2008. The NPP has yet to announce its nomination plans.
The by-election follows heightened regional tensions, including galamsey crackdowns in Akyem Wenchi, 30 km from Akwatia. Political analysts predict a heated contest, with NDC’s 2024 candidate, Henry Boakye Yiadom, favored to run. The winner will join Parliament’s 276 members, sworn in fully on July 22.