Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Bediako argued that sidelining other aspirants, including former MP Ama Sey, created internal disunity that weakened the NPP’s efforts.

He contrasted this with the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s approach, noting that his party was able to resolve internal challenges and present a united front to voters.

“In my opinion, the imposition of their candidate did not help them. They did not conduct primaries, which denied others the chance to contest. Their campaign focused on the late Ernest Kumi, while the people of Akwatia wanted solutions to pressing issues,” he said.

The by-election, held on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, saw Mr. Bediako win with 18,199 votes (54.3%). His closest rival, Solomon Kwame Asumadu of the NPP, polled 15,235 votes, while Owusu Patrick of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG) secured 82 votes.

Source: Farida Seidu | Adomonline

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Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Mr. Baidoo explained that the road works were initiated after local chiefs directly appealed to President John Mahama through Chief of Staff Julius Debrah during his visit to Akwatia.

“The request came from the chiefs, and government had no option but to respond,” he said. “On the day the Chief of Staff introduced me to the chiefs, they demanded urgent interventions in their communities. That is what prompted the work, not politics.”

He emphasised that the timing was coincidental, noting that construction is still ongoing even after the by-election, which he said proves it was not an electoral gimmick.

“As we speak, the roads are still being worked on, even though the election is over. That should tell you it wasn’t just for votes,” Mr. Baidoo added.

The Akwatia by-election followed the passing of the constituency’s former NPP MP, Henry Boakye Yiadom. The contest was closely fought, with the NDC’s Baidoo securing a victory described by political analysts as a major boost for the governing party.

The NPP, however, accused the government of attempting to sway voters by rushing development projects, particularly road construction, in the run-up to the polls.

Certified results from the Electoral Commission (EC) showed that Baidoo secured 18,199 votes, defeating the NPP’s Kwame Asumadu, who polled 15,235. Owusu Patrick of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG) finished third with 82 votes.

In total, 34,122 ballots were cast, of which 33,819 were valid and 303 rejected. Voting took place across 119 polling stations.

Source: Gertrude Otchere

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Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Wednesday, a day after securing the seat, Mr Baidoo argued that the outcome went beyond local factors and reflected national dissatisfaction with the NPP’s performance in government.

“Over the past eight years, nothing really happened in the constituency. This election is a reflection of the mandate of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the NPP for the eight years,” he said.

Mr Baidoo contrasted that record with the enthusiasm shown for ongoing road works under President John Dramani Mahama.

“H.E John Dramani Mahama just came to power, so if he is not able to do much but touched on a road which is not even up to a kilometre and the people are so excited, that should tell you how hungry they have been with regards to development,” he noted.

He further criticised the NPP’s neglect of loyal communities such as Kusi, stressing that the people’s decision was a vote for change.

The private legal practitioner, representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC), emerged victorious in the closely contested Akwatia by-election with 18,199 votes (about 54%). His closest contender, Solomon Kwame Asumadu of the NPP, secured 15,235 votes, while Owusu Patrick of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG) managed 82 votes.

The result marks a significant breakthrough for the NDC, reclaiming the crucial swing seat from the NPP.

Source: Albert Kuzor

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Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Wednesday, Mr. Baidoo, a lawyer by profession, acknowledged the economic challenges faced by his constituents, many of whom rely on mining for their livelihoods.

“As I have said, they don’t have jobs. Personally, I’m a lawyer, and I understand this better,” he noted.

He emphasised that mining remains the backbone of the local economy, warning that attempts to completely halt it would be both impractical and detrimental to the people.
“As for mining, we cannot stop mining in Akwatia; that should be made clear. Because that is what makes Akwatia what it is,” he asserted.

However, Mr. Baidoo drew a sharp line between legitimate small-scale mining and the destructive practice of galamsey.
“We will not do illegal mining. That is what we should fight and make sure the people do the mining, but in a very lawful way,” he stated.

He further advocated for the reintroduction of structured mining schemes that would enable local groups to operate legally under government supervision with strict environmental safeguards.
“This issue of bringing people together and giving them concessions regulated and under a certain scheme should be brought back,” he proposed.

Source: Emmanuel Tetteh

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