NPP Digs In: Rejects Ablekuma North Rerun, Demands Recognition of Victory

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has forcefully rejected demands for a rerun in the disputed Ablekuma North parliamentary election, declaring their candidate, Akua Afriyie, the rightful winner based on what they call “undeniable evidence.”

Addressing the media at the party’s candidate office in Accra, NPP General Secretary Justin Frimpong Kodua was unequivocal: *”We have our undeniable evidence to clearly show that we won the Ablekuma North parliamentary election,”* he stated. *”Under no circumstances will we be intimidated. Under no circumstance will we be coerced to go for a rerun.”* The party maintains its victory is legitimate and final.

Disputed Outcome

The election results have been contested since the initial declaration. While the Electoral Commission (EC) first named the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Awurabena Aubynn, as winner, the NPP challenged this, citing vote collation discrepancies. The NPP asserts its figures show Akua Afriyie secured 34,613 votes against Aubynn’s 34,199 – a margin of 414 votes.

NPP’s Stance: No Rerun, Declare Now

The EC’s subsequent order for a rerun in 19 specific polling stations on July 11, 2025, has intensified the standoff. The NPP flatly refuses participation. Instead, Kodua demanded the EC adhere to a court directive: **”We will not go for any rerun. We have won the elections. What we are asking the Electoral Commission is to follow the court directive, finish the collation, and declare our candidate, Akua Afriyie, as the MP-elect for Ablekuma North.”

EC Moves Forward with Rerun Plans

Despite the NPP’s firm rejection and refusal to participate, the Electoral Commission is proceeding with its plan. The rerun in the 19 polling stations is scheduled for July 11, 2025. The EC maintains this step is necessary to resolve the impasse, with the final outcome of the Ablekuma North seat hinging on these results.

The Stalemate

The situation presents a significant challenge. The NPP insists it has already won and demands immediate declaration based on existing collation, while the EC is moving ahead with a partial rerun it deems essential for a conclusive result. The path to resolving the Ablekuma North parliamentary seat remains uncertain.

By Kingsley Asiedu