Evan Nimako reveals why NPP withdrew from the Tamale Central by-elections

The Director of Elections for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Evans Nimako, has dismissed suggestions that the party’s withdrawal from the upcoming Tamale Central parliamentary by-election was out of fear of losing.

Speaking on Eyewitness News with Umaru Sanda Amadu on August 11, Mr. Nimako said the decision was based on respect for the late Member of Parliament, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and others who tragically lost their lives in the August 6 military helicopter crash in Adansi Akrofoum, Ashanti Region.

“It would be unnecessary for the NPP to field a candidate under the current circumstances,” he said. “We lost our dear brothers under very bizarre circumstances. In order to give them a befitting burial and wish them well in their next world, it is not to go through a certain contestation. We’re saying that under the circumstances, there’s no need. This principle should be supported by all lovers of democracy.”

Mr. Nimako argued that the party’s move should be seen as a mark of respect rather than a political calculation. “I think you should rather pat the NPP on the back. This gesture by the NPP should rather receive some commendations from lovers of democracy,” he added.

A statement signed by NPP General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, confirmed that the decision was made at a National Steering Committee meeting held on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the party’s headquarters.

Dr. Murtala Muhammed was among eight people who died in the crash, including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah; Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed; former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye; NDC Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong; and Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator.

The aircrew members who perished were Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

The government has since declared a three-day national mourning period, which featured a flower-laying ceremony on August 7 and a memorial service on August 9. A state funeral for the victims will be held on Friday, August 15, 2025, at the Black Star Square in Accra.