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The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has expressed confidence in the ongoing Akwatia by-election, stating that the exercise is proceeding smoothly and will serve as a benchmark for future elections in Ghana. During a visit to the constituency, Yohuno praised the conduct of both security personnel and voters, describing the atmosphere as peaceful and orderly [no date mentioned].
The Ghana Police Service has deployed over 5,500 personnel to ensure a peaceful election, with top-ranking officers, including regional commanders and members of the Police Management Board (POMAB), actively working alongside field personnel. The IGP commended the performance of the police on the ground, saying, “Everything is going on very well”.
Despite the generally calm atmosphere, tensions arose earlier in the day following an altercation between members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP). The NDC’s National Vice Chairman, Chief Sofo Azorka, expressed anger over an unannounced visit by the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, to the NDC party office, describing it as “highly disrespectful” and “provocative”.
A confrontation also broke out between Alhaji Osman Masawudu, the NPP’s third National Vice Chairman, and Azorka’s escort, with eyewitnesses confirming that a member of Azorka’s escort reportedly slapped Masawudu before police intervened to restore order. One person was arrested for allegedly inciting violence and vandalizing campaign posters.
The Akwatia by-election is being held across 119 polling stations with over 50,000 eligible voters. The Electoral Commission has assured the public of a transparent, credible, and fair voting process. The outcome of this by-election is expected to signal shifting political sentiments ahead of the 2028 general elections.
