A fresh poll from Global InfoAnalytics projects a narrow lead for candidate Bernard Bediako of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Ghana’s closely watched Akwatia by-election, scheduled for Sept. 2.
The survey, conducted Aug. 27–28 among 2,050 registered voters, shows Bediako with 53% support, ahead of his main challenger, Solomon K. Asumadu of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), who is polling at 47%. With a margin that remains within reach, analysts say undecided voters could still sway the outcome in either direction.
The by-election was triggered by the death of NPP Member of Parliament Ernest Kumi on July 7. Akwatia, a swing constituency in Ghana’s Eastern Region, has alternated between the two major parties over the past two decades, making the contest a key barometer of public sentiment ahead of the 2028 national elections.
Beyond partisan loyalty, voters are expressing concerns over rising unemployment, economic uncertainty, and gaps in access to basic infrastructure—issues that have dominated the campaign and may be eroding support for the incumbent party.
Global InfoAnalytics noted that while Bediako holds the edge, the race remains fluid as final campaigning intensifies. The Electoral Commission and security services have announced plans for a significant deployment on election day, amid growing concerns about political tensions and recent instances of electoral violence across parts of the country.
Political observers say the Akwatia vote could offer early clues about the national mood as Ghana approaches a critical election cycle.
