NPP Declines Participation in Tamale Central By-Election

By Joylinda Laryea / August 11, 2025

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has announced that it will not contest the upcoming Tamale Central Parliamentary by-election, following the death of the constituency’s Member of Parliament, Alhaji Hon. Dr. Murtala Mohammed, in the tragic military helicopter crash of August 6, 2025.

In a statement signed by General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong and issued from the party’s headquarters on August 11, 2025, the NPP said the decision was taken at a National Steering Committee meeting held the same day, in line with Article 10(10)(1) of the party’s constitution.

The party explained that its decision was influenced by “the circumstances under which the Tamale Central seat has become vacant” and the need to avoid further polarization in the country during a period of national grief.

According to the statement, the NPP believes it would be “inhumane and unconscionable” to subject the nation to the tensions and acrimony often associated with by-elections so soon after the tragedy. Instead, the party stressed that the greatest tribute to the late MP and the other seven victims of the crash would be to continue the fight against illegal mining (galamsey) and ensure a smooth, peaceful process for the people of Tamale Central.

The NPP further indicated that when the Electoral Commission opens nominations for the by-election in line with Article 112(5) of Ghana’s constitution, it will abstain from the contest “in accord with the national interest.”

Dr. Murtala Mohammed was among eight individuals who died while serving the Republic, an event that has plunged the nation into mourning and prompted calls for unity across the political divide.