NPP will not contest Tamale Central by-election after death of MP Murtala Mohammed

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has announced that it will not field a candidate in 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.

Dr. Murtala Mohammed was among eight individuals who lost their lives when a military Helicopter they were travelling in crashed in Adansi Akrofoum in the Ashanti Region.

His passing has created a vacancy in the Tamale Central seat, prompting preparations for a by-election in accordance with Article 112(5) of Ghana’s Constitution.

In a statement signed by NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the party said the decision was taken during a National Steering Committee meeting held on Monday, August 11, 2025, at its national headquarters.

The resolution, made in line with Article 10(10)(1) of the NPP Constitution, was influenced by what the party described as the “circumstances under which the Tamale Central seat has become vacant” and the need to avoid deepening political divisions at a time of national mourning.

“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,” the statement read.

“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.

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