Tamale, Aug. 11, 2025 — The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has announced it will not participate in the upcoming Tamale Central parliamentary by-election, following the tragic death of the constituency’s Member of Parliament, Hon. Dr. Murtala Mohammed, in the August 6 helicopter crash that claimed eight lives.
The decision, taken at a National Steering Committee meeting at the party’s headquarters on Monday, was made in accordance with Article 10(10)(1) of the NPP constitution.
In a statement signed by General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the party said its choice was guided by both the circumstances of the vacancy and the need to maintain national cohesion.
“It would be inhumane and unconscionable to subject the nation to competitive processes in search of a replacement for the departed MP,” the statement read. “The tension and acrimony often associated with by-elections should be avoided at this critical time.”
The NPP emphasised that the most fitting tribute to the late legislator would be to advance the fight against illegal mining (galamsey) and to ensure a smooth and peaceful transition for the people of Tamale Central.
The party noted that when the Electoral Commission opens nominations in line with Article 112(5) of the 1992 Constitution, it will, “in accord with the national interest,” refrain from fielding a candidate.
Hon. Dr. Murtala Mohammed, a prominent figure in Parliament and within Tamale Central, died while on official duty, alongside seven others, in a crash that has been described as one of the darkest moments in recent national history.
