16 pick up nomination forms for NDC Tamale Central vacant parliamentary seat after Murtala Muhammed’s death

NDC Tamale Central By-Election — The race to succeed the late Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed in Parliament has officially commenced, with a crowded field of aspirants stepping forward to contest in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primaries for the Tamale Central by-election.

The Electoral Commission has scheduled the by-election for September 30, 2025, following the shocking death of Dr. Murtala Muhammed in a tragic military helicopter crash on August 6, 2025. His passing left both Parliament and his constituents in deep mourning, and the upcoming contest is seen as a defining moment to preserve his legacy.

NDC Tamale Central By-Election Attracts Strong Interest

NDC Tamale Central By-Election – According to party officials, a large number of aspirants have already collected nomination forms, reflecting the strategic importance of Tamale Central, which has long been a stronghold of the NDC in the Northern Region. By Friday, August 22, sixteen aspirants had picked up forms, while nominations officially close on Sunday, August 24, 2025.

The contest is shaping into a highly competitive race, drawing seasoned politicians, academics, grassroots activists, and professionals. The crowded field shows the weight the constituency carries within the NDC and Ghana’s wider political landscape.

Female Aspirants in the NDC Tamale Central By-Election

NDC Tamale Central By-Election – For the first time in many years, female representation is taking center stage in the by-election. Among the notable female aspirants are Mariama Naamaa Salifu, Muliaka Sualisu, Hajia Shamima Yakubu, and Hajia Alimatu Issahaku.

Their participation is being hailed as a positive step toward expanding women’s leadership in Ghana’s politics. The NDC has also made it easier for female aspirants to contest by slashing the filing fee by 50 percent, encouraging inclusivity and diversity within the party.

Male Contenders in the NDC Tamale Central By-Election

NDC Tamale Central By-Election – The list of male aspirants is equally formidable. Notable among them is Abdul Hanan Gundadoo, former Mayor of Tamale, who is recognized for his long-standing political influence in the region.

He faces stiff competition from Abdul Rauf Halid, the National Vice Chairman of the NDC, whose entry is seen as a strong signal of interest from the party’s national leadership.

From academia, three senior lecturers – Dr. Seidu Mohammed of the University for Development Studies, Prof. Razak Abubakari of Tamale Technical University, and Prof. Alidu Seidu of the University of Ghana, bring policy-driven and intellectual weight to the race.

Also in contention are Dr. Aliu Abdul Hamid, a civil engineer, Dr. Rahman A. Rashid, Alhaji Alhassan Nbalba (a former NDC UK Chapter Chairman), and entrepreneur Alhassan Osman Gomda, who is expected to champion business-friendly initiatives.

Nomination Fees and Vetting for the NDC Tamale Central By-Election

The NDC has pegged the cost of nomination forms at GH₵5,000, with a filing fee of GH₵40,000. However, women and persons with disabilities enjoy a 50 percent concession on the filing fee.

Once nominations close, the party will begin vetting aspirants on August 31, 2025, followed by balloting and appeals. The internal primaries are scheduled for September 6, 2025, ahead of the by-election on September 30. A certified delegates’ list will be provided after the vetting exercise.

Opposition NPP Withdraws from the Tamale Central By-Election

In a surprising development, the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has confirmed that it will not contest the Tamale Central by-election. According to party officials, this decision was taken out of respect for the late Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, who was admired across the political divide for his fiery parliamentary contributions and grassroots commitment.

This move effectively makes the by-election an internal contest within the NDC. However, analysts believe the outcome could shape the party’s unity, credibility, and electoral strength ahead of the crucial 2028 general elections.

Tamale Central Constituency Holds Strategic Importance

Tamale Central has long been one of the NDC’s most reliable constituencies in the Northern Region. The large pool of aspirants signals the constituency’s influence within Ghanaian politics. The upcoming primaries will test the NDC’s ability to balance competing interests from seasoned politicians, academics, professionals, and grassroots organizers.

The race also represents more than just a parliamentary seat. For many residents, it is about preserving the legacy of Dr. Murtala Mohammed, who was deeply loved for his passionate representation and dedication to his people.

Legacy of the Late Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed

Dr. Murtala Muhammed’s sudden death in a helicopter crash has left his constituents and the nation in shock. He was widely known for his boldness, grassroots activism, and commitment to defending the interests of Tamale Central both in and outside Parliament.

The by-election, therefore, is not just about replacing him but about finding a unifying candidate capable of continuing his legacy of service, advocacy, and development for the people of Tamale.

Conclusion

The NDC Tamale Central by-election is shaping into one of the most closely watched political contests of 2025. With sixteen aspirants already in the race and more expected before nominations close, the stakes are high.

While the opposition NPP has stepped aside, the crowded field within the NDC signals a contest of ideas, influence, and vision. For the people of Tamale Central, the hope is that whoever emerges will rise to the challenge and carry forward the work of the late Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.

Read also: NPP’s Heartfelt Decision: Party Steps Aside in Tamale Central By-Election to Honour Late MP