In a dramatic turn of events during the Akwatia parliamentary by-election, a confrontation between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Vice Chairman, Chief Sofo Azorka, and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Third National Vice Chairman, Alhaji Osman Masawudu, escalated into chaos at a polling station, but Bernard Bediako Baidoo wins seat.
The incident, which was captured on video and widely shared on social media, began with a dispute over campaign posters but quickly devolved into a physical altercation.
Akwatia By-Election Clash: NDC’s Chief Sofo Azorka vs NPP’s Alhaji Osman Masawudu; [Video]
This clash reflects the heightened tensions in Ghana’s political landscape, particularly in swing constituencies like Akwatia, where electoral outcomes often hinge on narrow margins. The presence of police was unable to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control, raising concerns about the potential for violence in the by-election.
The altercation occurred amidst a backdrop of intense political rivalry, with the NPP and NDC vying for control of the Akwatia seat, a constituency known for its history of close contests. The NPP has won five out of the nine parliamentary elections held in Akwatia, compared to the NDC’s four victories, making it a critical battleground that mirrors national political trends. The by-election, triggered by the death of the previous MP, Ernest Kumi, has seen both parties deploy significant resources and rhetoric, intensifying the stakes. This incident not only threatens to disrupt the electoral process but also underscores the challenges of maintaining order during elections in Ghana, where political parties often dominate the narrative.
NDC’s Bernard Bediako Baidoo Wins Akwatia By-Election
Provisional Results for Akwatia By-Election | #EIBNetwork#ElectionHub#GHOneNews #GHOneTV#NewsAlert #AkwatiaByElection pic.twitter.com/doNbwsvbse
— GHOne TV (@ghonetv) September 2, 2025
The video footage shows Chief Sofo Azorka and Alhaji Osman Masawudu engaging in a heated exchange, with Azorka appearing to slap Masawudu, leading to a scuffle involving supporters from both sides. Police intervention was met with resistance, and the scene quickly descended into chaos, with bystanders and media personnel caught in the crossfire. This event highlights the fragility of peace in Ghana’s electoral process, despite the country’s reputation as a stable democracy in West Africa. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for accountability from political leaders, emphasizing the need for stronger measures to ensure fair and peaceful elections.
As the Akwatia by-election continues, this confrontation serves as a stark reminder of the potential for political violence in Ghana. With over 52,000 registered voters and 119 polling stations, the outcome of this by-election could significantly impact the balance of power in Parliament. The incident has also reignited discussions about the role of party leadership in maintaining decorum and the responsibilities of security forces in managing electoral disputes. As Ghana navigates this critical period, the international community and local observers are closely watching to see how the country addresses these challenges and upholds its democratic principles.
