Voters in the Akwatia Constituency of the Eastern Region are casting their ballots today, Tuesday, September 2, to elect a new Member of Parliament following the passing of the incumbent, Ernest Kumi.

More than 50,000 registered voters are expected to participate in what has become a fiercely contested by-election between Ghana’s two dominant political parties.

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has put forward Bernard Bediako Baidoo as its candidate, while the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is being represented by Solomon Kwame Asumadu.

Both aspirants have mounted intensive campaigns in recent weeks, supported by senior party figures and national executives who have made high-profile visits to the constituency.

To safeguard the process, the Ghana Police Service has deployed over 5,500 officers across Akwatia. The officers are tasked with maintaining peace and order before, during and after voting.

The police have cautioned against acts of violence, voter intimidation or breaches of electoral regulations, vowing to deal firmly with offenders.

The Electoral Commission (EC) has also given assurances of a transparent and credible exercise.

According to the Commission, special arrangements have been made to guarantee the timely delivery of electoral materials, close monitoring and efficient collation of results.

The by-election has drawn intense national interest as it is widely regarded as a test of political strength between the NDC and NPP ahead of the 2028 general elections.