The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has announced it will not participate in the upcoming Tamale Central Parliamentary by-election to replace the late Member of Parliament, Alhaji Hon. Dr. Murtala Mohammed.
Dr. Mohammed, along with seven others, died in a helicopter crash on August 6, 2025, while serving the Republic.
The decision was reached during a National Steering Committee meeting at the party’s headquarters in Accra on Monday, August 11, in accordance with Article 10(10)(1) of the NPP Constitution.
According to the party, the move was influenced by the circumstances surrounding the vacancy and concerns about heightened political polarization. “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, citing tensions and acrimony often linked to by-elections.
The NPP said the greatest tribute to Dr. Mohammed and the other victims is to maintain peace and stability in Tamale Central, alongside continuing the national fight against illegal mining (galamsey).
The party confirmed that when the Electoral Commission opens nominations for the by-election under Article 112(5) of the 1992 Constitution, it will abstain from the contest “in accord with the national interest.”
The announcement was signed by NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong.
