Ghana Election Watch Urges Delay of Akwatia By-Election After Tragic Loss

Election Watch Ghana has formally requested the Electoral Commission postpone the September 2 by-elections in Akwatia, citing the recent helicopter crash that claimed eight lives.

The August 6 tragedy in Adansi-Akrofuom included Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, the National Democratic Congress’ Director of Elections and IT, who served on the EC’s Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC).

The group argues the loss of such a pivotal figure warrants a brief delay under the EC’s discretionary powers. In a Monday statement, conveners Mark Ewusi Arkoh and Jude Balma emphasized Article 296 of Ghana’s Constitution, which mandates fair exercise of authority, and Section 13 of the Elections Act, allowing timeline adjustments for unforeseen circumstances. They contend postponement would honor Dr. Boamah’s legacy while ensuring fairness for the NDC to regroup.

Election Watch further called for an emergency IPAC meeting to discuss options, stressing that deferral would reinforce electoral impartiality. The by-election was triggered by the death of MP Ernest Kumi after a short illness. The EC has not yet responded to the appeal.