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A political scientist, Dr Samuel Kofi Darkwa, has stressed the need for political parties and the broader public to determine the future direction of the conduct of by-elections in the country.
He said that, considering that by-elections in Ghana have often been marred by disproportionate violence and high costs, policymakers might consider reforms enabling the deceased MP’s party to fill the vacancy internally through its competitive processes.
“Such a system could ease electoral tensions, save public funds and reduce the likelihood of token candidates fielded purely for sympathy votes. It would also help safeguard democratic credibility while preserving the dignity of national mourning,” he said.
Dr Darkwa told the Daily Graphic that how political actors navigated those sensitive moments would ultimately shape public trust and the tone of Ghana’s political culture in the years ahead.
Touching on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) decision to withdraw from the upcoming Tamale Central by-election in honour of the late National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament, Dr Murtala Ibrahim Mohammed, he said it represented a rare gesture of unity in Ghana’s often highly charged political environment, Dr Darkwa stated.
“It reflects deep respect for the deceased, his family, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the nation. Such an act highlights the human element in politics, showing that rivalry can pause for empathy in moments of shared grief,” he said.
Dr Darkwa, however, said the decision also raised questions about the political consequences for the NPP, particularly the potential impact on electoral competition in Tamale Central and the precedent it might set for similar contests.
On whether the NDC should similarly withdraw from the Akwatia by-election was a far more complex matter.
He said, unlike Tamale Central, Akwatia had been the subject of legal disputes, with the NDC determined to snatch the seat from the NPP before the MP’s untimely passing.
“Standing down could be seen as an honourable show of solidarity, but it might also be interpreted as an abdication of electoral responsibility, potentially disappointing loyal supporters,” he said.
Dr Darkwa however, said with the NDC already commanding a two-thirds majority in Parliament, the seat might not be critical for advancing their legislative agenda.
“Nonetheless, political realities dictate that every constituency remains important for maintaining local influence and organisational strength.
Therefore, the NDC’s decision must weigh compassion and symbolism against the strategic imperative to contest, mindful of the expectations of their grassroots base,” he stressed.
Dr Darkwa said those developments could signal a maturing of Ghana’s democracy, with political parties recognising the importance of civility and respect in national life.
He, however, said they also expose a more profound dilemma: how can the country honour the memory of departed leaders without weakening the spirit of competitive politics?
