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.
In a statement signed by General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the party said the decision was taken at a National Steering Committee meeting on Monday, August 11, 2025, in accordance with Article 10(10)(1) of its constitution.
The NPP explained that the circumstances under which the Tamale Central seat became vacant and the potential for further political polarization informed the decision.
The party described it as “inhumane and unconscionable” to subject the nation to a competitive process at this sensitive time, noting that by-elections often come with tension and acrimony.
According to the statement, the greatest tribute to the late MP and the other victims of the crash is to focus on unity, peace, and the ongoing fight against illegal mining, rather than political competition.
The Electoral Commission is yet to open nominations for the by-election in line with Article 112(5) of Ghana’s Constitution. When it does, the NPP says it will not take part in the contest “in accord with the national interest.”
Read full statement below:
