Mussa Dankwah, Executive Director and Head of Research at Global Info Analytics, has explained that development has emerged as the defining issue in the upcoming Akwatia by-election.
According to him, constituents have expressed lack of confidence in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) ability to deliver on their needs.
In an interview on Morning Starr with Naa Dedei Tettey on Friday, August 29, Mr. Dankwah stated that a majority of voters in Akwatia believe the NPP cannot spearhead development in the constituency.
“Fifty-two percent of respondents said their vote will be based on development. The economy followed at 15 percent, education 13 percent, jobs 10 percent, galamsey 8 percent, while only 4 percent said they would vote along party lines or sympathy. The NDC’s campaign message of development seems to be resonating strongly,” he explained
This follows a conducted between August 27 and 28 with 2,050 voters, projects victory for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Bernard Bediako Baidoo Esq., who leads with 53%. His main rival, Solomon Kwame Asumadu of the NPP, trails with 47%, setting the stage for a tense contest.
The by-election, scheduled for Tuesday, September 2, 2025, was triggered by the passing of MP Ernest Yaw Kumi. Contestants include Asumadu (NPP), Baidoo (NDC), and Owusu Patrick of the Liberal People’s Party (LPG).
Meanwhile, the Eastern South Regional Police Command has intensified security, arresting 10 suspects and seizing nine weapons in operations ahead of the polls.
Despite the poll results, both the NPP and NDC have expressed optimism of victory, but analysts suggest the candidate best able to convince voters on development will likely win Akwatia.
