Tensions escalated in the Akwatia Constituency amid the ongoing parliamentary by-election, as Chief Sofo Azorka, the National Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), fired a stark warning at Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin.
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The confrontation followed an alleged incident involving Afenyo-Markin’s bodyguards who reportedly removed posters of the NDC candidate from the party’s local office. In a pointed declaration, Chief Azorka stated, “If Afenyo-Markin does not respect the police, we will have a by-election in his constituency.”
Incident Sparks Accusations of Disrespect and Intimidation
The tense situation unfolded when Afenyo-Markin unexpectedly arrived at the NDC’s Akwatia office with a group of men who civically-affiliated members claim tore down campaign posters. The unannounced visit ignited a heated confrontation, with Chief Azorka labeling it as “highly disrespectful” and “provocative.” He accused Afenyo-Markin and his associates of deliberately undermining the democratic process and intimidating local supporters during this critical election period.
Adding to the uproar, Chief Azorka accused the NPP of employing the by-election as a testing ground for “undemocratic strategies.” As a result, he vowed that any further actions perceived as interference or defiance could trigger a full-blown by-election in Afenyo-Markin’s own Effutu constituency.
Escalating Political Tensions Amid By-Election
The Akwatia by-election, necessitated by the unfortunate passing of MP Ernest Kumi, has become a focal point of heightened political tensions. With over 50,000 registered voters spread across 119 polling stations, both the NDC and NPP have dispatched senior party leaders and key supporters to campaign vigorously.
Security concerns have been amplified following the poster removal episode. Authorities confirmed the arrest of one individual connected to the incident, but as polls continue, the atmosphere remains charged, with both parties issuing warnings and appeals for calm.
Stakes for Afenyo-Markin and His Constituency
For Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin, this controversy comes at a delicate moment. As the MP for Effutu and a prominent voice in Parliament, his actions are under scrutiny from both his party and rivals. The loose comment made by Chief Azorka—threatening a by-election in Effutu—serves as both a warning and a political gambit. It is designed to rally NDC supporters while reminding Afenyo-Markin of the consequences of ignoring party decorum and local peace.
This standoff exposes deeper fault lines between the NDC and NPP, and underscores the sensitive nature of by-elections in Ghana. These contests have historically served as barometers of national mood, political strength, and party unity.
Also read: Akwatia By-Election NPP and NDC Face-Off
Stability, Calls for Dialogue, and Community Assurance
As voting progresses in Akwatia, both parties will be watching closely. While the NDC calls for peaceful conduct and cooperation with security institutions, the NPP must manage the fallout from the poster dispute and ensure that their representatives respect local protocols.
Observers suggest the Electoral Commission and police should step in to facilitate dialogue between party leaders and ensure fairness. Local chiefs and civil society groups might also offer platforms for de-escalation, urging political actors to prioritize voters over tension.
The poster removal incident at Akwatia has sparked a compelling flashpoint—political rhetoric turned into a real threat of constitutional reprisal. Chief Sofo Azorka’s warning serves as both a statement of intent and a reminder of the fragility of political trust. As votes are cast and results near, Ghana watches closely to see whether this clash will deepen partisan divides or foster renewed respect for democratic norms.
