Africa Governance Centre Calls for Peaceful Participation in Akwatia By-Election

As indigenes of Akwatia go to the polls for the parliamentary by-election in the Akwatia Constituency on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, the Africa Governance Centre (AGC) urges all stakeholders, political parties, security agencies, civil society, media, and citizens to uphold peace, tolerance, and democratic integrity throughout the electoral process.

Accra, Ghana – September 1, 2025 As indigenes of Akwatia go to the polls for the parliamentary by-election in the Akwatia Constituency on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, the Africa Governance Centre (AGC) urges all stakeholders, political parties, security agencies, civil society, media, and citizens to uphold peace, tolerance, and democratic integrity throughout the electoral process.

Akwatia, a historically competitive constituency in the Eastern Region, has become a focal point of national attention due to heightened political tensions and symbolic stakes for both the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). While political enthusiasm is welcome in any democracy, recent reports of inflammatory rhetoric, vote-buying allegations, and threats of violence have raised concerns about the safety and credibility of the polls. The AGC commends the Ghana Police Service for deploying 5,500 officers and initiating community assurance patrols to foster public confidence and deter electoral violence. We also recognize the Electoral Commission's commitment to transparency, logistical readiness, and peaceful conduct. However, peace is not the responsibility of institutions alone.

We call on:

• Political parties and candidates to refrain from provocative language, vigilante mobilization, and any form of electoral malpractice.

• Media outlets to promote verified, non-sensational reporting and amplify peace messaging.

• Civil society and religious leaders to use their platforms to encourage restraint, tolerance, and civic responsibility.

• Voters and citizens to reject violence, report suspicious activities, and participate peacefully in shaping their future.

The Akwatia by-election is more than a contest for a parliamentary seat. It is a test of Ghana's democratic maturity. Let us prove, once again, that Ghana remains a beacon of peace and democratic resilience in Africa.

Signed,
Moonn Cyriacus
Director of Communications
Africa Governance Centre