The Member of Parliament for Lawra, Bede Ziedeng Anwataazumo, has said that the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) decision to withdraw from the Tamale Central by-election will not deter the National Democratic Congress (NDC) from contesting the vacant Akwatia seat.
His comments follow the NPP’s recent announcement that it would not field a candidate in the upcoming Tamale Central by-election, describing the move as a gesture of respect for the late MP, Dr. Mohammed Murtala, who tragically lost his life in the Z9 military helicopter crash earlier this month.
In a statement dated August 10, 2025, the NPP said the withdrawal was in honor of the late MP, recognizing the tragic and sensitive circumstances surrounding his passing.
Speaking in Parliament, Hon. Bede Ziedeng welcomed the NPP’s decision but insisted that the NDC sees no reason to follow suit in Akwatia.
He emphasized that while the NPP’s withdrawal reflects the mood of the nation, each situation must be viewed on its own merits.
“The circumstances surrounding the deaths of the MPs for Tamale Central and Akwatia are not the same.
Those trying to draw parallels between the two cases should stop.
If the NPP has chosen not to contest in Tamale Central, that is a decision made in good faith, and we respect that.
However, it will not influence our position regarding Akwatia,” ” he said.
The Akwatia seat became vacant following the recent death of its MP under unrelated circumstances.
Story by : Prosper Kwaku Selassy Agbitor
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