NPP withdraws from Tamale Central by-election
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has announced that it will not participate in the parliamentary by-election to elect a replacement for the Tamale Central constituency following the tragic passing of Alhaji Hon. Dr. Murtala Mohammed.
The move comes in the wake of the tragic helicopter crash on August 6th that claimed the lives of eight individuals, including the sitting Tamale Central MP, Alhaji Hon. Dr. Murtala Mohammed.
In a press statement issued on Monday, August 11, the party explained that the decision was formally ratified during a meeting of its National Steering Committee held at the party headquarters in Accra, in line with provisions of the party’s Constitution.
NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, explained that after careful consideration of multiple factors, including the “circumstances under which the Tamale Central seat has become vacant” and the current national climate, contesting the by-election risked deepening political polarization.
The party described the idea of a competitive election after the fatal crash as “inhumane and unconscionable,” emphasizing its desire to avoid the “tension and acrimony often associated with the conduct of by-elections in the country” during this period of mourning.
“The greatest tribute that the NPP and the rest of the nation can pay in honour of the departed is not only to win the fight against Galamsey but also to ensure a smooth and peaceful replacement for the good people of Tamale Central,” part of the statement read.
Consequently, the NPP declared that when the Electoral Commission of Ghana formally opens nominations for the by-election as mandated by the Constitution, the party will abstain from the contest.
This decision, according to the NPP, is being taken “in accord with the national interest.”
See Full Statement Below:
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