BY Grace Zigah
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially opened nominations for its parliamentary primaries in the Tamale Central Constituency, setting the stage for a by-election following the sudden passing of the area’s Member of Parliament, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.
Dr. Murtala Mohammed lost his life in a helicopter crash on August 6, 2025. The crash, which killed eight people, sent shockwaves across the nation and left Tamale Central without representation in Parliament.
His death created a political vacuum in one of the NDC’s traditional strongholds, prompting the party to move quickly to select a replacement ahead of the Electoral Commission’s by-election date.
Opening of Nominations
In a statement signed by the party’s General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the NDC announced that nominations opened on Friday, August 22, 2025, and will close on Sunday, August 24.
Aspirants are required to pick and submit their nomination forms at the NDC Northern Regional Office.
The statement further indicated that a certified delegates’ list will be provided to aspirants after the vetting process, ensuring transparency in the selection process.
Nomination forms have been priced at GH₵5,000, while filing fees are set at GH₵40,000.
However, in line with the NDC’s affirmative action policy, female aspirants and persons with disabilities will benefit from a 50 percent reduction on filing fees.
Possible Successors to Murtala Mohammed
Even before the nomination process opened, names of possible successors had begun circulating in Tamale Central.
Among those being mentioned by constituents and party faithful are:
Hanan Gundaadoo, former Mayor of Tamale
Dr. Isaahaku Nashiru, former Governor of the Bank of Ghana
Dr. Seidu Fitter, Lecturer at the University for Development Studies (UDS)
Dr. Abdulai Salifu, former CEO of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
Dr. Mahama Shaibu, Lecturer at UDS
Dr. Sule, Principal of Tamale College of Education (TCE)
Dr. Sa-ad, official at the Ministry of Finance
Wife of the late MP, Dr. Murtala Mohammed, whose potential candidacy is seen by some as a continuation of her husband’s legacy.
The entry of such high-profile figures sets the stage for what is expected to be a competitive contest, although the NDC is widely expected to retain the seat given its dominance in the constituency.
NPP Stands Aside
In a rare gesture of political respect, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has announced that it will not contest the Tamale Central by-election.
According to party officials, the decision was taken to honour the memory of the late Murtala Mohammed, who had been a vocal legislator and strong advocate for his constituents.
