The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has appealed to party members to remain united and patient as the process begins to replace the late Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, the Member of Parliament for Tamale Central who died in the August 6 tragic helicopter crash.
Speaking at the Adua on Tuesday, August 12, Mr. Asiedu Nketiah welcomed the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) decision not to contest the impending by-election, describing it as a gesture of respect during a time of national grief.
The NPP had earlier announced it would step aside to avoid deepening political divisions following the loss of Dr. Mohammed in the August 6 crash.
“Now the challenge is ours — whether we will fight among ourselves over who should replace Murtala. On behalf of the party, I want to say, let us not rush in choosing his successor,” Mr. Asiedu Nketiah said. “Because in doing so, we may end up dishonouring his memory.”
The helicopter tragedy claimed the lives of eight people, including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Mr. Samuel Aboagye, and three military officers.
Mr. Asiedu Nketiah indicated that the party’s political committee would meet before any decision on a successor is made, stressing that the focus should remain on honouring the late MP and supporting his family.
He also dismissed claims by some individuals that they had foreseen the tragedy, insisting that it was an act of divine will. “Nothing happens without the knowledge of Allah,” he said.
Dr. Murtala Mohammed, remembered for his vocal advocacy and service to both Nanton and Tamale Central constituencies, leaves behind a legacy of social justice and unwavering dedication to his constituents.
His death has plunged the NDC and the nation into mourning.
The NDC is expected to outline its by-election plans in the coming weeks, but for now, the party leadership says its priority is unity, healing, and a dignified farewell to a fallen colleague.
