The Eastern Regional Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Tony Osei-Adjei, has admitted that the party let the late Ernest Kumi down, whose death led to the recent Akwatia by-election.
The Electoral Commission’s certified results showed the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) Bernard Bediako securing 18,199 votes of the total valid votes cast. His closest rival, Kwame Asumadu of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), garnered 15,235 votes.
Owusu Patrick of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG) trailed far behind with 82 votes. Out of the total ballots cast, 33,819 were valid, while 303 were rejected.
Speaking after the declaration of results, Osei-Adjei reflected on Kumi’s efforts to serve his constituents and the challenges he faced before his passing.
“To some extent we disappointed him because he has lost his life in trying to maintain the seat. He won, he has ran every bit of his life chasing to restore his honour and dignity to his constituents.”
He noted that Kumi’s struggle to clear his name and hold onto the seat had taken a toll on him, especially after a legal setback.
“Somewhere along the line he lost when the Supreme Court gave the first ruling and it was left with the Koforidua court to take a decision on it.”
On the outcome of the by-election itself, Osei-Adjei said the party had hoped to win but respects the will of the people.
“We are a bit disappointed because that wasn’t what we expected, but the constituents have spoken so we take it in good faith.”
Source: Channel1news.com
