The race to replace the late Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed in Parliament has officially begun, as thirteen aspirants have picked nomination forms to contest in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) internal parliamentary primaries for the Tamale Central by-election.
The contest, scheduled by the Electoral Commission for September 30, 2025, follows the tragic passing of the constituency’s Member of Parliament in the tragic helicopter crash on August 6, 2025.
The keenly anticipated by-election is already shaping into a highly competitive contest, drawing interest from seasoned politicians, academics, and grassroots activists within the NDC.
Among those who have thrown their hats into the ring are three women, reflecting a growing effort to expand female representation in political leadership. They include Mariama Naamaa Salifu, Muliaka Sualisu, and Hajia Shamima Yakubu.
The list of male contenders is equally formidable, featuring prominent figures with deep roots in both the NDC and the Northern Region. Abdul Hanan Gundadoo, a former Mayor of Tamale, is widely regarded for his long-standing political experience and influence in local governance.
He is joined by Abdul Rauf Halid, the National Vice Chairman of the NDC, whose entry into the race signals strong interest from the party’s national executive level.
From academia, the contest has attracted Dr Seidu Mohammed, a lecturer at the University for Development Studies, and Prof Razak Abubakari, a senior lecturer at Tamale Technical University.
Both are expected to bring a policy-driven approach to the campaign. Similarly, Prof Alidu Seidu, a senior lecturer at the University of Ghana, adds further academic weight to the contest, expanding the pool of intellectuals vying for the parliamentary slot.
Also in the lineup is Dr Aliu Abdul Hamid, a civil engineer, who highlights the intersection of professional expertise and political ambition.
Dr Rahman A. Rashid and Alhaji Alhassan Nbalba, the latter being a former Chairman of the NDC’s UK Chapter, add to the diversity of candidates. Completing the field is entrepreneur Alhassan Osman Gomda, who is expected to bring a business-minded perspective to the contest.
Party officials have confirmed that nominations will close on Sunday, August 24, 2025. After that, the NDC will begin vetting all aspirants, following which the date for the internal primaries will be announced. The vetting process is expected to be rigorous, considering the crowded field and the strategic importance of Tamale Central to the NDC.
The by-election has gained national attention not only because of the caliber of candidates but also due to the circumstances leading to the vacancy. Dr Murtala Mohammed, remembered for his fiery contributions in Parliament and his close ties to grassroots politics in Tamale, passed away tragically in a helicopter crash earlier this month.
His death has left both the NDC and his constituents in shock, with many viewing the by-election as an opportunity to honor his legacy through a strong and unifying candidate.
Meanwhile, the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has announced that it will not contest the Tamale Central by-election. According to the party, the decision is rooted in respect for the late Dr Murtala Mohammed, who served his constituents with passion and dedication.
The NPP’s stance is expected to make the contest a strictly internal battle within the NDC, although the outcome could still have wider implications for the party’s unity and strength ahead of the 2028 general elections.
The large pool of aspirants reflects the strategic importance of Tamale Central within Ghana’s political landscape. With its location in the Northern Region, the constituency has long been considered a stronghold of the NDC.
The primaries will test the party’s ability to balance competing interests from seasoned politicians, academics, professionals, and grassroots organizers, all of whom are eager to step into the late MP’s shoes.
For constituents of Tamale Central, the hope remains that whoever emerges victorious will continue the legacy of representation, advocacy, and service left behind by the late Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.
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