There is a heavy police presence at the Akwatia GCD Walker Park today, Monday, August 4, as the National Democratic Congress (NDC) holds its parliamentary primary to elect a candidate for the upcoming September 2 by-election in the Akwatia constituency of the Eastern region.

Security personnel have been strategically deployed to the area to maintain law and order as party delegates cast their votes to choose from three contenders vying to represent the party in the by-election.

The aspirants include former Member of Parliament, Henry Boakye Yiadom, former Presiding Member of the Akwatia Municipal Assembly, Erasmus Ali Korney, and another party member, Bernard Bediako Baidoo.

The atmosphere is tense yet orderly, with party supporters thronging the venue in anticipation of the outcome, while police officers patrol the park and surrounding areas to ensure a smooth process.

Addressing journalists at the venue, Mark-Oliver Kevor, Eastern Regional Chairman of the NDC, expressed strong confidence in the party’s chances at the by-election, declaring confidently that whoever emerges victorious in the internal election will effectively become the MP for Akwatia.

“The NDC is fully prepared and united behind this by-election. We believe Akwatia is ready for change, and our candidate, once elected today, will carry the constituency to victory on 2nd September,” Dr Kevor stated.

The by-election follows the sudden passing of the young New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Kumi.

Before his death, his victory was being contested by the NDC in court, which had alleged some irregularities during the main election in December 2024.

The declaration of the vacant seat has triggered political activity in the constituency as the two major parties position themselves for what is expected to be a hotly contested race.