The Akwatia by-election saw two key contenders: Solomon Kwame Asumadu, popularly known as Owuo, representing the NPP, and Lawyer Bernard Bediako, representing the NDC.
Although Asumadu was widely recognized and popular in the constituency, a series of strategic and organizational setbacks contributed to his defeat.
Strong NPP Start, But Momentum Faded
At the beginning, the NPP campaign appeared stronger. While the NDC was mourning eight heroes who had died in a helicopter crash, the NPP was already on the ground campaigning vigorously. This gave them an early advantage, with surveys from Global Info Analytics even predicting an NPP victory.
When the NDC later held its primaries, Lawyer Bernard Bediako emerged as the candidate. Initially, his victory created division within the party, as some supporters of losing aspirants—Erasmus Ali (Asanka) and Henry Boakye Yiadom (Okoyo)—felt sidelined.
However, the NDC leadership, including the Chief of Staff, National Chairman, MPs, and MMDCEs, quickly intervened. They united the camp and convinced the aggrieved aspirants to rally behind Lawyer Bediako.
Why NPP’s Campaign Weakened
Despite Asumadu’s local popularity, several factors undermined his campaign:
- Presence of Top Party Figures
Lawyer Bediako was consistently backed by influential NDC leaders at campaign events.
In contrast, Asumadu often campaigned with only a few constituency executives, without strong national or regional backing.
- Campaign Coverage
The NPP focused heavily on Wenchi, while the NDC strategically campaigned across every corner of Akwatia—covering both strongholds and weak areas.
- Media Relations
The NPP sidelined some major media houses due to internal disagreements, limiting Asumadu’s visibility. His executives often even discouraged him from granting interviews. Meanwhile, Lawyer Bediako embraced the media, effectively projecting his vision and campaign messages to a wider audience.
- Campaign Messaging
The NPP leaned heavily on sympathy appeals, focusing largely on issues related to Yaw Kumi. The NDC, however, delivered a development-focused message: voting for Lawyer Bediako meant voting for progress under the ruling government.
Conclusion
In the end, the NDC mounted a united, strategic, and well-resourced campaign with national backing, strong media engagement, and a development-driven message.
On the other hand, Solomon Kwame Asumadu lacked similar top-level support, broader outreach, and effective media relations. This combination of factors ultimately cost him the Akwatia by-election.
Article Written By Danquah Enock Idan
