Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mustapha Gbande, has expressed strong confidence that the party will secure victory in the upcoming Akwatia by-election, citing internal unity, competent leadership, and a firm commitment to democratic processes.

Speaking in an interview on Citi Eyewitness News on Tuesday, July 29, Gbande took a swipe at the New Patriotic Party (NPP), accusing it of attempting to impose a candidate on the people of Akwatia in a manner he likened to the “outdooring of chiefs” rather than a democratic selection process.

“Even in the Akwatia constituency, all is not well with the NPP,” Gbande asserted. “They have gone in there and decorated a particular candidate as if that is how they outdoor chiefs—imposing on the party. We will not go through that line.”

He emphasised that the NDC is a “strong and competent” party that values internal democracy. According to him, the party’s approach will be guided by good governance, sound political engagement, and a credible track record.

“We believe that, for all intents and purposes, we are going to win the Akwatia election on the basis of quality politicking, good governance, and our track record,” he said confidently.

Gbande also stressed the importance of open internal competition, stating that all interested aspirants within the party should be given the opportunity to contest for the slot in order to select a candidate who reflects the will of the party’s grassroots.

“That is why we believe the only way to arrive at the candidate suitable for the by-election is to allow each and everyone an opportunity to contest, so that internally, the party will decide,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Director of Elections for the New Patriotic Party, Evans Nimako, has dismissed claims that Solomon Kwame Asumadu is being imposed on the party and the people of Akwatia as the parliamentary candidate for the by-election.