NDC dumps former MP hor his lawyer in Akwatia by-election

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Akwatia is facing a wave of internal unrest after a dramatic parliamentary primary that saw its constituency secretary and private legal practitioner, Bernard Bediako Baidoo, defeating both his former client, ex-MP Henry Boakye Yiadom, and veteran party loyalist Erasmus “Asanka” Koney Ali.

In a tense contest, Bernard Baidoo emerged with 389 votes, narrowly edging out Asanka, who secured 366 votes, while Boakye Henry Yiadom came third with 226. Out of 975 votes cast, only three were rejected.

But while the numbers are clear, the political fallout has been anything but smooth.

From legal ally to political rival, Bernard Baidoo’s candidacy comes with an ironic twist: he once represented Boakye Yiadom in the controversial court case that challenged the 2024 election victory of the late NPP MP Ernest Kumi.

The legal battle, centred on an alleged over-voting incident in New Wenchi, went to the Supreme Court, which upheld Ernest Kumi’s win.

After Court battles for months, Ernest Kumi died unexpectedly, cutting short what many saw as a promising political career.

Though no official link was made between the case and his passing, the drawn-out litigation is widely believed to have weighed heavily on him.

Now, in a turn that has angered many within the party, Bernard Baidoo has not only stepped into Henry Yiadom’s political space but defeated him outright—an outcome that critics call a betrayal.

Cash-for-Votes Allegations

Sources within the constituency allege that Bernard Baidoo’s campaign was buoyed by strong financial backing from local mining interests, with some delegates reportedly receiving GHS 2,000 each to vote for him.

Rival candidates are said to have offered GHS 500 and 1000.

The claims have intensified the sense among some party faithful that the primary was decided by money, not merit.

Asanka’s Loyalists Revolt

For Erasmus Asanka’s supporters, the defeat is the latest in a string of disappointments.

The mining contractor and former Presiding Member of the Denkyembour District Assembly has long been a respected figure in Akwatia politics, with influence that cut across party lines.
In the aftermath of the vote, videos circulated online showing disgruntled delegates swearing to withhold their support from the NDC in the upcoming by-election.

Some openly declared they would vote for the NPP’s candidate, accusing the party of abandoning loyalty and grassroots democracy.

NPP Smells Opportunity

The NPP has selected constituency Treasurer Solomon Kwame Asumadu to carry the party’s flag.

Seen as a grassroots figure with strong ties to the youth and mining community, Solomon Asumadu is already being positioned as a more relatable alternative to the NDC’s choice.

Many residents say they feel disappointed in the NDC’s decision to back Bernard Baidoo over Ali Asanka, with some warning the party could face a humiliating loss in the September 2 by-election.

Economic Discontent Adds Pressure

The political tensions come amid deep economic frustration in Akwatia’s mining sector.

Since the NDC took office in January 2025, the Ghana Gold Board has slashed the purchase price of gold from GHS 13,400 to around GHS 8,300 per pound—a loss of about GHS 5,000.

In a town where artisanal mining is the mainstay, miners say the cut has crippled their earnings, with some shutting down entirely.

This economic strain could further weaken the NDC’s standing, making the by-election a potential referendum on the government’s economic policies.

The Akwatia by-election has now become more than a fight for a parliamentary seat—it is a test of loyalty, credibility, and the ability of both parties to connect with voters in a climate of mistrust and hardship.

For the NDC, it’s a scramble to repair unity and defend its choice of candidate. For the NPP, it’s an opening to recapture a seat marked by grief, legal wrangling, and political betrayal.