NPP Shocks Nation- Pulls Out of Tamale Central By-Election

NPP Shocks Nation- Pulls Out of Tamale Central By-Election

In a surprise twist shaking Ghana’s political scene, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has declared it will not field a candidate in the upcoming Tamale Central parliamentary by-election. The announcement, made by General Secretary Lawyer Justin Frimpong Kodua, has sparked fierce debate over whether it’s a shrewd strategic retreat or a risky political gamble.

Tamale Central has long been a stronghold of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), where the NPP has struggled to make electoral gains. Political analysts suggest the party may be conserving resources for winnable seats ahead of the 2026 general elections.

Critics, however, warn the move could demoralize the NPP’s northern support base and hand the NDC an uncontested win, potentially boosting their momentum.

The by-election, triggered by the resignation of the sitting MP, is yet to be officially scheduled by the Electoral Commission. With the NPP out, the race could turn into an NDC internal contest or open a rare window for smaller parties and independents.

For now, the NPP insists its decision is tactical, not a sign of weakness. Whether it proves to be political brilliance or a blunder will be decided in the battles leading up to 2026.