The Electoral Commission (EC) has declared Professor Alidu Mahama Seidu of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as the Member of Parliament-elect for Tamale Central, after he emerged as the only candidate in the by-election.
Announcing the result, the Returning Officer, Muniru Musah, cited Constitutional Instrument (CI) 127, which empowers the EC to declare a sole candidate duly elected. “As it stands, only Prof. Alidu Seidu Mahama stands nominated, and according to CI 127, he shall be declared elected,” he explained.
The by-election became necessary following the death of the incumbent MP, Dr. Alhaji Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who tragically died in a helicopter crash in August. Initially, three candidates — Prof. Seidu, the PNC, and the LPG — filed to contest, but both opposing candidates later withdrew.
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The EC subsequently reopened nominations for 10 days, yet no new aspirants stepped forward. With the window closed and no challengers, Prof. Seidu was confirmed MP-elect without a single ballot cast.
Reacting to the development, the NDC’s Deputy Regional Secretary, Ziblim Saaka, thanked constituents for their support and assured them of inclusive and development-focused leadership. He added that the MP-elect is committed to fulfilling his promises and advancing progress in Tamale Central.
Prof. Seidu is expected to be sworn into Parliament in the coming days to formally assume his role.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem