Pressure group Election Watch Ghana is urging the Electoral Commission (EC) to reschedule the Akwatia by-election, currently set for September 2, 2025, following the death of several prominent political figures in last week’s military helicopter crash.
In a statement issued on Monday, August 11, the group described the passing of Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah — Director of Elections and IT for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and a key member of the EC’s Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) — as an “extraordinary circumstance” that warrants a shift in the electoral timetable.
“In light of the recent passing of eight gallant citizens, including Dr. Omane Boamah, Election Watch Ghana respectfully requests that the Electoral Commission consider postponing the upcoming Akwatia by-election,” the statement read.
The group cited Article 296 of the 1992 Constitution and Section 13 of the Elections Act, 2002 (Act 651), noting that the EC has the discretion to adjust election dates to ensure fairness and avoid undue prejudice.
It also called for an emergency IPAC meeting to discuss the proposal, stressing that the Commission has both a legal and moral obligation to maintain a level playing field.
The August 6 crash in Adansi-Akrofuom, Ashanti Region, claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
Two of the victims, both Muslims, were buried on Sunday, August 10, in accordance with Islamic rites at the Military Cemetery in Accra. A state funeral is scheduled for Friday, August 15, with a public tribute platform open for citizens to honour the deceased.
