The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has described any attempt to contest the Tamale Central Parliamentary by-election as “inhumane and unconscionable,” announcing its withdrawal from the race in what it calls a gesture of national empathy and restraint.
The party’s decision follows the death of Alhaji Hon. Dr. Murtala Mohammed, the sitting MP for Tamale Central, who perished in a helicopter crash on August 6 alongside seven others.
The tragedy has prompted widespread mourning and a constitutional requirement for a by-election to fill the vacant seat.
NPP, in a statement signed by General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, indicated the party resolved not to field a candidate when nominations open, citing the emotional gravity of the moment and the need to avoid further political tension.
“It would be inhumane and unconscionable to subject the nation to competitive processes in search of a replacement for the departed MP. The tension and acrimony often associated with the conduct of by-elections in the country should be avoided,” said in the statement dated Monday, August 11, 2025.
The resolution, according to the statement was reached at a National Steering Committee meeting held at the party’s headquarters in Accra, pursuant to Article 10(10)(1) of the NPP Constitution.
The party said it had weighed several factors, including the circumstances surrounding the MP’s death and the risk of deepening national polarization.
Beyond the immediate political implications, the NPP said, its decision as a moral stance, one that prioritizes peace, unity, and respect for the deceased.
“It is the considered view of the party that the greatest tribute that the NPP and the rest of the nation can pay in honour of the departed, is not only to win the fight against galamsey but also to ensure a smmoth and peaceful replacement for the good people of Tamale Central.”
The NPP emphasisied that “the party will, in accordance with the national interest, not take part in the contest.”
The Electoral Commission is expected to provide a roadmap in the coming weeks following the NPP’s decision.
