By Sharon Zoe Williams
Akwatia, in a closely contested by-election necessitated by the death of incumbent Member of Parliament Ernest Yaw Kumi, has on 2 September seen the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Bernard Bediako Baidoo, emerge victorious, reclaiming the parliamentary seat.
Bernard Bediako secured 18,199 votes, surpassing his closest rival Solomon Kwame Asumadu of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who garnered 15,235 votes. The result gave Bediako a winning margin of 2,964.
The peaceful election was keenly monitored by supporters of both parties and residents of the constituency. Jubilant scenes followed the announcement, with party faithful and members of the Akwatia community expressing excitement over the outcome. The victory, they say, reflects the trust and confidence the people of Akwatia have in the NDC’s vision.
Bediako has promised to address pressing issues affecting the constituency and to drive development that will benefit all. His campaign placed emphasis on job creation, education, and healthcare, messages that resonated strongly with voters.
Historically, Akwatia has been a swing constituency, alternating between the NDC and NPP over the past three decades. Out of nine elections, the NPP has won five while the NDC has secured four. Notable victories include the NDC’s Gilbert Kwasi Agyei in 1992 and Alhaji Mohammed Erzuah Siam in 1996, while the NPP’s Kinston Akomeng Kissi took the seat in 2000 and 2004. Mercy Adu-Gyamfi reclaimed it for the NPP in 2016, before the NDC’s Henry Boakye won in 2020. The NPP’s Ernest Yaw Kumi then secured the seat in 2024 by a margin of 2,063 votes.
This year’s by-election further cements Akwatia’s reputation as one of Ghana’s most competitive constituencies. Analysts say the NDC’s victory was driven by strong grassroots engagement and effective mobilisation of young voters, ranging from junior high to senior high school students.
Expectations are high for Bediako to deliver meaningful change, tackling challenges such as high unemployment and inadequate infrastructure. For many residents, the NDC’s win is a mandate for progress and an opportunity to usher in a new era of development in the constituency.
