The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced that it will contest the upcoming Akwatia by-election scheduled for September 2, 2025, in the Eastern Region.

In a statement signed by Deputy National Communications Officer Godwin Ako Gunn, the party described the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) recent decision not to contest the Tamale Central by-election as a calculated move to avoid defeat and garner public sympathy ahead of the Akwatia polls.

Mr. Gunn noted that this would not be the first time a political party has opted out of a by-election, recalling that the NDC did not contest the Ejisu by-election following the death of then-MP John Kumah.

He emphasised that the Akwatia seat had been subject to a court case, which was unresolved at the time of the death of Ernest Kumi, the late NPP MP for the constituency.

He also cautioned against taking the NPP’s announcements at face value, citing the Ablekuma North re-run, where the NPP initially said it would not contest but later began active campaigning.

The statement extended condolences to the family of the late Ernest Kumi and to the families of the eight military and government officials who perished in the recent helicopter crash.

Mr. Gunn further urged party members to be measured in their remarks during this period of national mourning.