The National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Akwatia has elected Lawyer Bernard Bediako Baidoo as its candidate for the upcoming parliamentary by-election on 2 September 2025, following a contentious primary. However, the victory has been met with significant backlash from some party supporters, who allege that the process was tainted by financial influence and have threatened to vote for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate instead.
Bediako, a member of the NDC’s legal team and the current constituency secretary, secured 380 votes in a closely contested race, narrowly defeating Erasmus Koney Ali, who received 366 votes, and former MP Henry Yiadom Boakye, who garnered 232 votes. The primary was held to select the party’s representative for the by-election, triggered by the sudden death of the sitting MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi, on 7 July 2025.
Despite Bediako’s win, discontent has simmered among sections of the NDC base. Supporters claim that some party executives were swayed by monetary incentives, leading to what they perceive as an unjust outcome. “We feel betrayed by our own party,” one supporter told Big Stuff Media GH. “If this is how decisions are made, then we might as well support the NPP candidate.”
This internal strife comes at a critical juncture, with the NPP also ramping up its campaign efforts in Akwatia. The ruling party, aiming to retain the seat, has been led by figures such as Solomon Asumadu and General Secretary Justin Frimpong Kodua, who have been actively rallying support. The NPP’s campaign has been framed not only as an effort to hold onto the constituency but also as a tribute to Kumi’s legacy, who was widely admired for his leadership.
The controversy in Akwatia underscores broader concerns about transparency and fairness in Ghanaian political primaries. It echoes the NDC’s own allegations of electoral irregularities in the 2024 general election, which saw Kumi’s narrow victory over Boakye challenged in court—a case that remains unresolved due to Kumi’s passing.
As the by-election approaches, the NDC faces the challenge of mending internal divisions to present a united front. The outcome of this election could have significant implications for both parties, potentially influencing voter turnout and party unity in a constituency that has become a focal point of political tension.
For further details, readers can access the original post by EDHUB here.