Reports reaching The Overseer Newspaper indicate that former Member of Parliament for Akwatia Constituency, Henry Boakye Yiadom, popularly known as “Okoyo”, has opted out of the upcoming by-election following the death of the sitting MP, Ernest Kumi.
Family sources confirm that Okoyo’s decision is personal. However, political observers believe it may be linked to his past legal challenge of the 2024 parliamentary results. The former MP took the late Ernest Kumi to court over alleged over-voting in five polling stations — a move that stirred political tensions between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
A family member who spoke to The Overseer on condition of anonymity said the decision is in the best interest of the family and is aimed at avoiding unnecessary tension.
“I am not sure Henry will contest. We will have more peace if he does not. I have information that Ama Sey is not contesting. If Ama Sey is not contesting, why should Okoyo contest?” he said.
There are also suggestions that Okoyo’s withdrawal is intended to avoid any superstitious insinuations or political attacks from NPP sympathizers, given the sensitive history between him and the late MP.
Additionally, reports from party insiders suggest that Okoyo currently lacks strong grassroots support, and his candidacy could potentially weaken the NDC’s chances in the by-election.
Hon. Henry Boakye Yiadom served as Member of Parliament for Akwatia from January 2021 to January 2025. Despite losing the seat in the 2024 general elections, he remains a notable figure within the constituency’s political landscape.
Meanwhile, credible information from Eastern Regional executives of the NDC indicates that introducing a new candidate could energize the party base and improve their chances of reclaiming the seat.
