Nana B urges NDC to boycott Akwatia by-election in honour of fallen heroes

The National Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Henry Nana Boakye, popularly known as Nana B, has called on the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to withdraw from the upcoming Akwatia parliamentary by-election, scheduled for September 2, 2025.

Speaking in an interview on August 11, Nana B urged the NDC to honour the memory of its fallen members by stepping back from active political competition at least in the immediate aftermath of the recent national tragedy.

He cited the NPP’s precedent when the party chose not to contest the Tamale Central by-election out of respect for the late MP, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.

In the wake of the tragic military helicopter crash on August 6, which claimed the lives of five prominent NDC figures, including Dr Murtala Mohammed, Nana B said the NDC’s participation in a heated political contest so soon after the state burial would be inappropriate.

“We are mourning with them, losing a stalwart from the Eastern Region like that, and then moving straight into a fierce political contest right after the burial personally, I don’t think that would honour his memory,” he said.

He also referenced recent national tensions, including violent political clashes in Ablekuma and the broader shock surrounding the helicopter crash, as a reason to de-escalate partisan rivalry and foster unity.

“In moments like this, when the whole nation is grieving, lowering the political temperature is the responsible thing to do. Jumping into a highly competitive by-election right after laying these individuals to rest doesn’t reflect the spirit of national solidarity we need right now,” he stated.

While he made it clear that his call reflects a personal position rather than a directive, Nana B noted that the NDC has the opportunity to lead by example, just as the NPP did in the past.

The Akwatia parliamentary seat became vacant following the passing of Ernest Yaw Kumi, the sitting MP, on July 7, 2025, after a brief illness.

He was 40 years old.