The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has officially declared that it will abstain from contesting the upcoming Tamale Central parliamentary by-election, triggered by the untimely death of the late Member of Parliament, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who tragically died in a helicopter crash on August 6, 2025.
This decision was reached during a National Steering Committee meeting held on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the party’s headquarters, in line with Article 10(10)(1) of the NPP Constitution.
In its statement, the NPP explained that given the tragic circumstances leading to the vacancy, engaging in a competitive election process at this sensitive time would be inappropriate and could deepen national divisions.
The party described the situation as “inhumane and unconscionable” and urged the country to avoid the usual tensions and conflicts often linked with by-elections.
The party further emphasized that the best way to honor the late MP’s legacy is by continuing the fight against illegal mining (galamsey) and ensuring a peaceful and smooth succession for the people of Tamale Central.
Accordingly, the NPP confirmed it will not submit a candidate when the Electoral Commission opens nominations for the by-election, citing the national interest as its guiding principle.
It reads, “The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has resolved that it would not take part in the Tamale Central Parliamentary by-election to elect a replacement for the late Alhaji Hon. Dr. Murtala Mohammed, Member of Parliament (MP) for the Constituency, who was among the eight (8) who lost their lives in service of the Republic in the helicopter crash that occurred on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.”
“The decision was taken by the Party at a National Steering Committee meeting held on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the Party Headquarters pursuant to Article 10(10)(1) of the Party Constitution.”
The Tamale Central seat became vacant following the tragic crash that claimed the lives of eight prominent figures, including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
The state funeral honoring the eight fallen leaders is scheduled to begin at 8:00 AM on August 15, 2025.
Below is the statement
