By Aaron Asiedu-Antwi, Youth Organizer- Abirem Constituency
The late Hon. Ernest Yaw Kumi, after a second attempt to represent the good people of Akwatia, was finally sworn into Parliament on January 7, 2025. Sadly, his tenure was cut short when he passed away just six months later, on July 7, 2025.
Hon. Kumi’s brief time in office was fraught with legal battles, including contempt charges spearheaded by the NDC parliamentary candidate in the by-election, Lawyer Bernard Baidoo. Ironically, Mr. Baidoo once served as the NDC Constituency Secretary and legal counsel for the former NDC MP during their disputes with Hon. Kumi.
On June 11, 2025, the Supreme Court, by a 4-1 majority, declared Hon. Kumi the rightful MP. Yet, in a cruel twist of fate, he passed away just 26 days later. To the shock of many, Lawyer Baidoo went on to contest his own former client in the NDC primaries and won. Indeed, as the Akan saying goes, “Okukuseku, onipa ho yɛ hu”—humans can be unpredictable.
The NPP’s Choice: Solomon Kwame Asumadu
The NPP has, by consensus, presented Solomon Kwame Asumadu as its candidate for the upcoming by-election. Mr. Asumadu, a native of Boadua—an NDC stronghold—is a miner by profession and is widely respected for his philanthropy. He has previously served as a polling station executive and currently holds the position of constituency treasurer.
With both candidates now campaigning actively, the contest has taken shape. Lawyer Baidoo’s central message is that, since the NDC is in government, he is better positioned to lobby for development. On the surface, that pitch may sound attractive. But the people of Akwatia must ask: what has the government’s record shown so far?
Eight Months of Promises, Few Results
As another Akan proverb goes: “Agorɔ bɛ sɔ a, ɛfiri anɔpa”—if a game will be good, you can tell from the morning. The NDC government’s early actions speak volumes.
Mass Job Losses: One of its first directives was the dismissal of over 100,000 workers across the country—including some from Akwatia—despite their lawful recruitment.
Cocoa Price Disappointment: Farmers were promised an increase in producer price from GH¢3,100 to GH¢6,000. Instead, they received a paltry increment of just GH¢128—an outcome many saw as an insult.
Unfulfilled Women’s Bank Promise: Women in Akwatia were promised access to a Women’s Bank to support their businesses. Although GH¢400 million was projected, only GH¢51 million was allocated, and not a pesewa has been released.
Flagship Policies on Hold: Initiatives like Adwumawura, One Million Coders, and the much-publicized 24-Hour Economy remain largely on paper.
Yes, the cedi has appreciated significantly in recent months. But what does that mean when young people are losing jobs, cocoa farmers feel shortchanged, and women entrepreneurs still lack access to credit? Development is not about exchange rates—it must reflect in the daily lives of the people.
Why Akwatia Needs Solomon Kwame Asumadu
Faced with these realities, the people of Akwatia must make a choice. Can they entrust their future to a government that has already disappointed them in just eight months? Or will they look to a son of the soil who has lived among them, supported them, and understands their struggles?
Solomon Kwame Asumadu represents humility, accessibility, and service. His track record of philanthropy and grassroots involvement makes him more than just a politician—he is one of the people.
A Vote for Progress
The upcoming by-election is not just about party colors; it is about the future of Akwatia. The community needs a representative who will truly fight for them, not just echo promises from Accra.
A vote for Solomon Kwame Asumadu is not just a vote for the NPP—it is a vote for progress, dignity, and genuine representation.
A vote for Asumadu is a vote for you.
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