NDC will not interfere with security arrangements for Akwatia by-election - Asiedu Nketiah

The National Chairman of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has said his party will not interfere with the work of the police during the upcoming Akwatia by-election.

In a television interview with Channel One TV on Tuesday [August 26, 2025] Mr. Asiedu Nketiah said the security of the polls must remain the responsibility of the Ghana Police Service, which has been trained to safeguard citizens and maintain peace.

“I don't think that Akwatia will turn out to be a violent election because we have assured the police that if anybody is going to interfere in their way of doing things, it will not be NDC. So they should go ahead,” he said.

He stressed that the NDC was committed to a peaceful election, adding that the police should be held accountable for the outcome of their operations.

“They have been trained to protect the citizens, to maintain peace and so on. We have not been trained in that profession. So we are leaving the field for them to do what they have been trained to do and hold themselves responsible for the consequences,” Mr. Nketia added.

The by-election in Akwatia was triggered by the death of the Member of Parliament for the constituency, Ernest Kumi, with both the NDC and opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) preparing to contest what has historically been regarded as a swing seat.

Concerns over violence in by-elections remain high following past flashpoints such as the Ayawaso West Wuogon incident in 2019 and the recent Ablekuma North , which drew widespread criticism of the role of security agencies.

Civil society groups have repeatedly urged the police to act professionally and impartially during elections, warning that any perception of bias undermines public trust in democratic processes.

Mr. Asiedu Nketiah noted that his party has deliberately chosen to stay clear of security arrangements in order to avoid accusations of political interference.

“Our role is to campaign and win votes. The role of the police is to maintain order. Let everyone stick to their lane,” he said.