In a shocking move, the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) says it will not contest the upcoming Tamale Central Parliamentary by-election following the tragic death of the area’s Member of Parliament, Alhaji Hon. Dr. Murtala Mohammed, in the August 6 helicopter crash.
(Also Read: NATIONAL SHOCK: Omane Boamah, Murtala among 8 dead in military helicopter crash)
The NPP in a statement signed by the party's Chief Scribe said that the decision to opt out was made during National Steering Committee meeting held on Monday, August 11, 2025, at its national headquarters citing “circumstances under which the Tamale Central seat has become vacant”.
Justin Kodua explained in the statement that “The NPP is of the belief that it would be inhumane and unconscionable to subject the nation to a competitive process in search of a replacement for the departed MP,”
Adding that, “The tension and acrimony often associated with the conduct of by-elections in the country should be avoided.”
The party noted that the most fitting way to honour Dr. Murtala Mohammed and the other crash victims was not only to intensify the fight against illegal mining (galamsey) but also to ensure a peaceful and uncontentious process to replace the late MP.
“When the Electoral Commission of Ghana opens nominations for the Tamale Central by-election, the NPP will, in accord with the national interest, not take part in the contest,” the statement concluded.
Political observers say the NPP’s decision is a rare gesture in Ghana’s competitive political climate, potentially setting the stage for a consensus candidate or an uncontested by-election in the constituency.
