The New Patriotic Party (NPP) says it will not field a candidate in the yet-to-be-announced Tamale Central parliamentary by-election, describing the decision as a measure to avoid inflaming political tensions following the death of the constituency’s MP, Alhaji Hon. Dr. Murtala Mohammed.
The decision, taken at the party’s National Steering Committee meeting on Monday, comes less than a week after the August 6 helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Dr. Mohammed and seven others who were serving the Republic.
NPP General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, said the party weighed the “circumstances under which the Tamale Central seat has become vacant” and the risk of “further polarization of the country at this critical time.” He described a competitive by-election as “inhumane and unconscionable,” warning it could heighten tension and acrimony.
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Instead, the party says the most fitting tribute to the late MP is to focus on “the fight against galamsey” and ensure a “smooth and peaceful replacement” for the people of Tamale Central.
What does this mean for you?
Will this move by the NPP trigger a decision from the NDC to also pull out of the Akwatia by-election?
The Electoral Commission is yet to announce a date for the by-election, but the NPP confirmed that even when nominations open, it will “in accord with the national interest” stay out of the race.
