Accra, August 11, 2025
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has announced it will not participate in the upcoming Tamale Central Parliamentary by-election, which is to replace the late Alhaji Hon. Dr. Murtala Mohammed, Member of Parliament for the constituency.
Dr. Mohammed was among eight people who tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, while serving the Republic.
The decision was taken during a National Steering Committee meeting held at the party’s headquarters in Accra on Monday, August 11, 2025. The NPP said its choice was informed by the unique circumstances surrounding the vacancy and the potential for heightened political polarization at this sensitive time.
According to the statement signed by General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the party believes it would be “inhumane and unconscionable” to subject the country to a competitive by-election process so soon after the tragedy. The party also noted that such elections often breed tension and acrimony, which should be avoided in the national interest.
“The greatest tribute we can pay in honour of the departed is not only to win the fight against galamsey but also to ensure a smooth and peaceful replacement for the good people of Tamale Central,” the statement read.
The NPP confirmed that when the Electoral Commission of Ghana opens nominations for the by-election in line with Article 112(5) of the 1992 Constitution, it will refrain from contesting, in line with what it describes as the national interest.
