NPP’s Withdrawal From Tamale Central Bye-elections ‘Mature’
Founding President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe, has commended the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for its decision to withdraw from the Tamale Central parliamentary by-election, describing it as both mature and sensitive in light of recent national tragedies.
The by-election was triggered by the sudden passing of Alhaji Hon. Dr. Murtala Mohammed, MP for Tamale Central, in a military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of seven others in Adansi-Akrofuom on August 6, 2025.
Speaking to the media, Cudjoe noted that the NPP’s decision reflects respect for the memory of the departed and a recognition of the solemn national mood.
“This is a commendable move by the NPP. It shows maturity and empathy in a period where the entire country is still mourning,” he said.
Cudjoe urged the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to follow suit in the upcoming Akwatia by-election, which is currently scheduled for September 2, 2025, in the Eastern Region. The Akwatia polls were necessitated by the death of Dr. Edward Kofi Omane, another victim of the same tragic helicopter crash.
He argued that postponing or withdrawing from these elections would reduce political tensions and allow the nation to focus on mourning, unity, and healing rather than partisanship.
The call comes amid growing pressure on the Electoral Commission of Ghana to postpone the Akwatia by-election, with advocacy groups such as Election Watch Ghana also urging a delay.
While the EC has yet to issue an official statement on any changes to the electoral timetable, political observers say Cudjoe’s recommendation could gain traction, particularly if both major parties agree to put national sentiment above political competition.
Read More: Election Watch Ghana Urges Postponement of Akwatia By-Elections