Akwatia by-election progresses smoothly despite initial confrontation

The Akwatia by-election, held to fill the seat left vacant by the passing of the sitting MP, is progressing smoothly after an initial confrontation between executives of the NPP and NDC in the morning.

The election, taking place across 119 polling stations with over 50,000 eligible voters, saw tensions rise following an unannounced visit by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin to the NDC party office.

NDC officials, including National Vice Chairman Chief Sofo Azorka, condemned the “provocative” visit, accusing the NPP of attempting to intimidate NDC supporters.

The situation shortly escalated when a confrontation broke out between Azorka’s escort and Alhaji Osman Masawudu, the third National Vice Chairman of the NPP.

Eyewitnesses reported that a member of Azorka’s security detail slapped Masawudu, prompting police intervention. No arrests were made.

However, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has expressed confidence in the ongoing election process. He praised the peaceful atmosphere at polling stations and the strong performance of both security forces and voters.

“Everything is going on smoothly as planned, and that is what we expect to do—to make sure that at the end of the day, we have a very smooth and peaceful election,” Mr Yohuno told reporters later after the incident.

The IGP also highlighted the involvement of high-ranking officers, including regional commanders and members of the Police Management Board (POMAB).

“I am very satisfied with the performance of my men on the ground,” Mr Yohuno added.

He assured the public that the Ghana Police Service remains committed to preventing election-related violence, referencing the recent polls in Ablekuma North.