The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has announced it will not participate in the upcoming Tamale Central Parliamentary by-election following the tragic passing of the constituency’s Member of Parliament, Alhaji Hon. Dr. Murtala Mohammed.
Dr. Mohammed was among eight distinguished Ghanaians who lost their lives in a helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, while on national duty.
In a statement signed by the party’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, the NPP explained that the decision was reached at a National Steering Committee meeting on Monday, August 11, 2025, in accordance with Article 10(10)(1) of the party’s constitution.
The party said it considered several factors, including the sensitive circumstances under which the seat became vacant and the potential for increased political polarization at a critical time for the country.
“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, noting that the acrimony often associated with by-elections should be avoided in this period of national mourning.
The NPP further stated that the best way to honour Dr. Mohammed’s memory is not only to intensify the fight against illegal mining (galamsey) but also to ensure a peaceful and smooth replacement for the Tamale Central constituency.
Accordingly, the party confirmed that when the Electoral Commission opens nominations in line with Article 112(5) of Ghana’s Constitution, it will not field a candidate for the contest.
Below is the statement released by NPP;
