The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has announced that it will not participate in the upcoming Tamale Central parliamentary by-election, citing the tragic circumstances under which the seat became vacant and the need for national unity during a period of mourning.
In a press release issued today and signed by the Party’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, the NPP stated that the decision was taken at a National Steering Committee meeting held earlier in the day at the Party’s headquarters in Accra. The move is in accordance with Article 10(10)(1) of the Party’s Constitution.
The by-election was triggered by the passing of Alhaji Hon. Dr. Murtala Mohammed, the Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, who died along with seven others in a helicopter crash on August 6 while on official duty.
Describing the moment as a “critical time” for the country, the NPP emphasized that competing for the seat so soon after the tragedy would be “inhumane and unconscionable.” The Party noted that by-elections in Ghana are often fraught with tension and political polarization—an outcome it wishes to avoid in this sensitive period.
“The NPP believes that the greatest tribute the nation can pay in honour of the departed is not only to win the fight against illegal mining, known as Galamsey, but also to ensure a smooth and peaceful replacement process for the people of Tamale Central,” the statement read.
Accordingly, the NPP has resolved not to present a candidate when the Electoral Commission opens nominations for the by-election, in line with Article 112(5) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.
This decision marks a rare moment of political restraint and is likely to shape the tone of the impending by-election, as the country continues to mourn the loss of several public servants in the fatal crash.
Source: Padfm.com.gh/Kumatey Gorden/0243531604
