The people of Ablekuma North return to the polls today in a highly anticipated parliamentary rerun that could finally settle one of Ghana’s most contentious electoral battles of the 2024 general elections.
At stake is a seat that has oscillated between two powerful female contenders: Ewurabena Aubynn of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Disputed victory
In the immediate aftermath of the December 2024 elections, the Electoral Commission provisionally declared Ewurabena Aubynn the winner of the Ablekuma North seat, making her one of the few NDC candidates to flip a traditional NPP stronghold. Celebrations erupted in parts of the constituency, especially in NDC-leaning enclaves, as the victory was seen as symbolic of the party’s inroads into Greater Accra.
However, the joy was short-lived.
The NPP contested the result, citing irregularities and unaccounted polling station results. According to the party, 19 polling stations had results that were either not collated or not certified by the EC, creating a cloud of uncertainty over the final outcome.
Court orders and electoral delays
The matter was taken to court, and the High Court ordered the Electoral Commission (EC) to ensure full collation of all valid votes.
Despite the directive, the EC admitted it had challenges retrieving results from the 19 disputed polling stations, leading to a stalemate.
To resolve the impasse and restore electoral integrity, the Commission announced a rerun in the affected polling stations. Today, July 11, 2025, over 6,800 eligible voters across the 19 polling centers are expected to cast their ballots once again.
This rerun is more than a local contest. For the NDC, a final win by Aubynn would represent a hard-fought triumph and bolster the party’s parliamentary numbers. It would also affirm the strength of the NDC’s growing base in urban constituencies.
For the NPP, reclaiming the seat through Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie would reinforce the party’s dominance in Ablekuma North and help correct what they believe was an electoral oversight.
Both candidates have strong personal and political followings:
Ewurabena Aubynn, a lawyer and first-time candidate, has been praised for her grassroots connection and youth-focused policies.
Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie, a former MP, is banking on her track record and the NPP’s long-standing hold over the constituency.
Security has been tight, with heavy police presence across all 19 polling stations. The Inspector General of Police earlier assured the public of a peaceful and fair rerun, urging all parties to avoid inflammatory conduct.
Turnout is expected to be high given the intense public interest and the critical nature of the rerun.
Polls close at 5:00 p.m., after which the votes will be counted and results collated. The EC has promised transparency and a swift declaration once the collation is complete.
