The Akwatia by-election, widely described as peaceful by election observers, witnessed flashes of political tension that briefly tested the security arrangements put in place by the Ghana Police Service.
An altercation broke out near the Akwatia lorry station when members of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) clashed at the beginning of the poll.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident escalated quickly after a misunderstanding between Chief Sofo Azorka, the NDC’s National Vice Chairman, and Alhaji Osman Masawudu, the NPP’s Third National Vice Chairman.
Mr. Azorka had earlier condemned what he termed a “provocative” and “disrespectful” visit by the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, to the NDC office in the constituency, accusing the NPP of attempting to intimidate their supporters.
Minutes later, tensions spilled over into a physical confrontation, with a member of Azorka’s escort slapping Mr. Masawudu before police stepped in to separate the two sides.
Despite the scuffle, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno expressed satisfaction with the overall conduct of the ongoing election, praising both security personnel and voters for maintaining order at the polling stations.
He noted that the deployment of senior officers, including regional commanders and members of the Police Management Board (POMAB), had strengthened the security presence in Akwatia.
“This election is being handled with the seriousness it deserves. Our men are on the ground, and I am impressed with their performance so far,” the IGP told reporters during a tour of the constituency.
He assured the public that election-related violence, such as the incident at Ablekuma North in past polls, would not be repeated.
The by-election, triggered by the death of the constituency’s Member of Parliament, is taking place across 119 polling stations, with 52,328 registered voters expected to cast their ballots.
While the early hours of voting were largely calm, the altercation between the two major political parties’ leaders underscored the fragility of peace in Akwatia.
A Daily Guide Report