The Electoral Commission of Ghana has announced that it will hold a parliamentary by-election in the Akwatia Constituency following the unfortunate death of the sitting Member of Parliament, Hon. Ernest Kumi. In accordance with Article 112 (5) of the 1992 Constitution, the seat has officially become vacant, and the Commission has scheduled the by-election to take place on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.
To ensure a smooth and transparent electoral process, the Electoral Commission will open nominations for prospective candidates from August 11 to August 13, 2025. These nominations are to be submitted at the Denkyembour District Office between the hours of 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm daily. Interested candidates must download the nomination forms from the Commission’s website (www.ec.gov.gh) between July 30 and August 13, 2025.
The nomination process is rigorous and requires each aspiring candidate to secure the support of registered voters within the constituency. Specifically, each form must be endorsed by two registered voters a proposer and a seconder as well as eighteen additional voters who assent to the nomination. Furthermore, each candidate must attach two recent passport-sized photographs (bust size) taken against a red background, clearly showing their full face and ears. Candidates are also required to submit a signed declaration confirming their consent to the nomination.
In terms of cost, the Electoral Commission has set a filing fee of GHC10,000 per candidate. However, in a bid to promote inclusivity and gender equity, female candidates and persons with disabilities (PWDs) will pay a reduced fee of GHC7,500. All completed nomination forms must be submitted in quadruplicate to facilitate processing.
The Commission’s announcement serves as a call to action for all eligible individuals who wish to serve in Ghana’s Parliament to step forward and participate in the democratic process. It also underscores the importance of civic duty and electoral participation, especially in times of transition. As preparations for the by-election begin, the Electoral Commission encourages all stakeholders to comply with the outlined procedures to ensure a peaceful and successful election in the Akwatia Constituency.
