The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has announced it will not participate in the upcoming Tamale Central Parliamentary by-election, following the death of the constituency’s Member of Parliament, Alhaji Hon. Dr. Murtala Mohammed.
Dr. Mohammed was among eight people who died in the August 6 military helicopter crash at Adansi Akrofoum in the Ashanti Region. His passing has left the Tamale Central seat vacant, triggering constitutional requirements for a by-election under Article 112(5).
In a statement signed by General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the party said the decision was taken at a National Steering Committee meeting held on Monday, August 11, 2025. Citing Article 10(10)(1) of the NPP Constitution, the statement explained that the move was influenced by the “circumstances under which the Tamale Central seat has become vacant” and the need to avoid political tensions during a time of national mourning.
“The NPP is of the belief that 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. It added that the acrimony often associated with by-elections should be avoided in the current climate.
The party also called for renewed efforts to combat illegal mining (galamsey), describing it as one of the most fitting ways to honour Dr. Mohammed’s legacy.
The NPP concluded by stating that when nominations open, it will not submit a candidate “in accord with the national interest.”
