Reflections on the Akwatia By-Election: A Lesson in Peaceful Democracy

By: Patrick Yao Amegede

Historically, Akwatia has been marked as one of Ghana’s electoral hotspots—a constituency often associated with tension and violence during elections. This reputation has cast a long shadow over its democratic processes, leaving many citizens anxious whenever polls are held.

However, the recent by-election conducted by the Electoral Commission of Ghana, with the vigilant oversight of the Ghana Police Service and under the current government led by His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, has offered us a refreshing and commendable shift.

It was a moment that reminded us, as Ghanaians, that peaceful elections are not only possible—they are achievable when institutions act with integrity and professionalism.

Leading up to the election, there was widespread fear that vigilante groups affiliated with the two major political parties—NDC and NPP—might incite violence, especially given the inflammatory remarks made by some party communicators and organizers on radio and television.

The tension was palpable, and many braced themselves for unrest. Personally, I was deeply disturbed by the thought that lives might be lost in the pursuit of political power. In a democracy, leadership should never come at the cost of human life. That is why I am profoundly grateful that this election was conducted without bloodshed. No life was lost, and that in itself is a victory for Ghana.

I must extend heartfelt congratulations to the Ghana Police Service, particularly under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno. Their conduct during the election was exemplary.

The strategic barricading of polling stations and the visible presence of officers helped deter troublemakers and protect the sanctity of the ballot. Unlike previous elections marred by ballot box snatching and destruction of voting materials, this by-election stood out as a model of order and discipline.

It is now crystal clear: with strong leadership and institutional accountability, our security services can rise to the occasion and ensure violence-free elections. This is the Ghana we must continue to build—a nation where democracy thrives not through intimidation, but through peace, participation, and professionalism.