NPP wins public praise for withdrawing from Tamale Central by-election after MP’s tragic death

By Sharryl Annor

Some Ghanaians have welcomed the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) decision not to contest the upcoming Tamale Central by-election.

In an official statement issued on August 11, 2025, and signed by the party’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, the NPP announced it would not field a candidate in the race.

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“The circumstances under which the Tamale Central seat has become vacant and the possibility of further polarisation of the country at this critical time informed our stance,” the statement read.

The party further described participation under the current circumstances as “inhumane and unconscionable”.

According to the NPP, the decision was made in light of the sensitive nature of the vacancy and concerns about deepening political divisions.

The move also aligns with Article 10(10)(1) of the party’s constitution.

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The Tamale Central seat became vacant following the tragic death of the Minister for Environment, Science and Technology and Member of Parliament for the constituency, Hon. Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who was among eight victims of a helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

In interviews with Ghana News Media, members of the public praised the party’s stance.

“Ideally, it is befitting that the New Patriotic Party opted out of the coming election. Most by-elections we witness have massive fights which also end up killing individuals,” said Nii Lartey.

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Another respondent, Akwasi, a cobbler, remarked,

“I applaud the NPP for taking such an exemplary step. This will promote peace in our country. But that does not necessarily mean the NDC should not contest for the Akwatia by-election. The circumstances around both deaths are different.”

Under Article 112(5) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, when a parliamentary seat becomes vacant, the Clerk of Parliament must notify the Electoral Commission within seven days.

A by-election must then be held within thirty days, except in cases of death, where the period extends to sixty days