National Democratic Congress (NDC) Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has welcomed the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) decision to withdraw from the Tamale Central by-election but says his party is determined to contest and win the upcoming Akwatia by-election in the Eastern Region.

Speaking during a visit to the NDC national headquarters by NPP leaders to commiserate with the party over the recent tragic helicopter crash, Mr Asiedu Nketiah described the NPP’s withdrawal as a move that promotes political stability in a tense electoral climate.

“We thank you for withdrawing from contesting the Tamale Central by-election,” he stated.

However, he reaffirmed the NDC’s resolve to fiercely contest the Akwatia by-election scheduled for September 2, expressing confidence in the party’s chances of winning the seat from the NPP.

“We wish to state that we shall contest the Akwatia by-election,” he said.

Mr Asiedu Nketiah also raised concerns about increasing threats of violence from political youth groups, warning that such behaviour could have far-reaching consequences for Ghana’s democracy.

“What we must recognise is that all these threats from certain youth regarding the election will ultimately lead to consequences that we will all have to face,” he cautioned.

He called on both NDC and NPP leadership to take proactive steps to rein in their supporters and prioritise peace during the electoral process.

“Let us collectively take the necessary measures to ensure that peace is maintained,” he urged.

The Akwatia by-election follows the death of sitting NPP Member of Parliament, Ernest Kumi. Before his passing, the NDC had challenged the legitimacy of his victory in court.