The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has conceded defeat in the Akwatia by-election, describing the outcome as a reflection of the people’s will.
Certified results from the Electoral Commission declared National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate Bernard Bediako Baidoo the winner with 18,199 votes. His closest contender, Kwame Asumadu of the NPP, polled 15,235 votes, while Owusu Patrick of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG) secured just 82 votes. Out of a total of 34,122 ballots cast, 33,819 were valid and 303 were rejected.
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Speaking after the declaration, the NPP’s Eastern Regional Secretary, Tony Osei-Adjei, admitted the party was disappointed but said it respected the verdict of the electorate.
“We are a bit disappointed because that wasn’t what we expected, but the constituents have spoken, so we take it in good faith,” he stated.
Mr Osei-Adjei also paid tribute to the late Ernest Kumi, whose passing triggered the by-election, expressing regret that the party could not retain the seat in his honour.
“To some extent, we disappointed him because he lost his life trying to maintain the seat. He worked tirelessly to restore his honour and dignity to his constituents,” he said, recalling the legal challenges Kumi endured before his death.
The by-election, seen as a critical test of strength for both the NPP and NDC, ended with the swing constituency returning to the NDC fold.