NPP Withdraws from Tamale Central By-Election in Wake of Tragedy

Ghana’s opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) will not contest the Tamale Central parliamentary by-election following the death of the constituency’s MP, Dr. Murtala Mohammed, in last week’s military helicopter crash.

The party’s National Steering Committee announced the decision Monday, calling it a mark of respect during national mourning.

Dr. Mohammed was among eight killed when the aircraft crashed in Adansi Akrofoum on 6 August. In a statement, NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong said holding a competitive by-election so soon would be “inhumane and unconscionable,” adding that avoiding the “tension and acrimony” typical of such votes was paramount.

The party framed its withdrawal as a tribute to Dr. Mohammed and other victims, pledging instead to intensify efforts against illegal mining (galamsey) a cause the late MP championed. “The most fitting honour is ensuring a peaceful transition,” the statement noted.

With the NPP abstaining, no opposition candidate will be submitted when the Electoral Commission opens nominations. The move leaves the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) unopposed in the contest to replace its fallen MP, underscoring the somber political unity following the tragedy.