The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is gearing up for a crucial parliamentary primary in the Tamale Central Constituency, a political battleground that holds significant weight in Ghana’s northern region. The by-election, scheduled for September 6, 2025, has sparked intense interest and competition within the party, as evidenced by the impressive roster of twelve aspirants vying for the coveted parliamentary candidacy. The NDC, recognizing the importance of this election, has meticulously laid out the groundwork for the primary, publishing the full list of contenders and emphasizing the need for a peaceful and transparent process. The party’s internal election, set to take place from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. across designated polling centers within the constituency, will determine who will ultimately carry the NDC banner into the by-election.
The twelve aspirants represent a diverse cross-section of backgrounds, experiences, and expertise, reflecting the dynamism within the NDC. Among the contenders are academics such as Prof. Seidu Mahama Alidu and Prof. Abdul-Razak Abubakari, suggesting a potential focus on intellectual rigor and policy-driven approaches. The list also includes prominent women, Mariama Naama Salifu and Hajia Shamima Yakubu, underscoring the growing role of women in Ghanaian politics and within the NDC itself. Further adding to the mix are medical professionals Dr. Seidu Fitter and Dr. Abdul-Rahaman Abdul-Rashid, bringing their healthcare perspectives to the table. The inclusion of legal professionals Lawyer Sadat Haruna Alhassan and Lawyer Hanan Gundadow Abdul-Rahaman signals a commitment to legal acumen and advocacy. Rounding out the list are Aliu Abdul-Hamid, Hajia Mulaika Salisu, Alhassan Osman Gomda, and Alhaji Alhassan Mbalba, each bringing their unique strengths and community connections to the race.
The Tamale Central Constituency holds historical and political significance within Ghana’s political landscape. As a major urban center in the Northern Region, it often serves as a barometer for the political climate in the north. The constituency has traditionally been a stronghold for the NDC, but the upcoming by-election presents both an opportunity and a challenge for the party. The diverse field of candidates highlights the internal competition and the desire to represent this crucial constituency. The outcome of the primary will not only determine the party’s representative but will also likely shape the narrative and strategy leading up to the by-election itself.
The NDC’s emphasis on a peaceful and transparent primary process underscores the party’s commitment to internal democracy and unity. Recognizing that the credibility of the primary is directly linked to the party’s overall strength and image, the leadership has called upon all members and supporters to maintain decorum and respect the outcome of the polls. The party’s General Secretary, in issuing the official notice, emphasized the importance of upholding peace and discipline throughout the process. This proactive approach aims to prevent any internal divisions or disputes that could weaken the party’s position going into the by-election. Maintaining unity and projecting a cohesive front will be critical for the NDC’s success in the Tamale Central by-election.
The by-election itself is expected to attract significant national attention, given the constituency’s political weight and the competitive nature of Ghanaian politics. The NDC’s chosen candidate will likely face a strong challenge from other political parties, making the selection process even more critical. The outcome of the by-election could have ripple effects on the broader political landscape, potentially influencing future electoral contests and political alliances. As such, the Tamale Central by-election is not merely a local contest but a significant event with national implications. The chosen candidate’s ability to effectively represent the constituency’s interests and resonate with the electorate will be crucial to the NDC’s success.
The upcoming NDC parliamentary primary in Tamale Central represents a critical moment for the party. The diverse slate of twelve aspirants reflects the vibrant internal democracy within the NDC. The party’s emphasis on a peaceful and transparent primary underscores its commitment to unity and internal cohesion. The outcome of the primary will not only determine the party’s flag bearer in the crucial by-election but will also shape the political narrative in the lead-up to the September 6th contest. With national attention focused on this key constituency, the stakes are high for the NDC, and the chosen candidate will bear the responsibility of upholding the party’s legacy and representing the interests of the people of Tamale Central.
