The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially declared Professor Alidu Seidu Mahama as Member of Parliament-elect for Tamale Central Constituency after running unopposed, marking a historic first in Ghana’s Fourth Republic where a parliamentary candidate has secured victory through acclamation rather than contested election.
Returning Officer Muniru Musah made the declaration Tuesday, September 23, in accordance with Constitutional Instrument (CI) 127, following the close of an extended nomination deadline that saw no other candidates file papers to contest the National Democratic Congress (NDC) professor.
The unprecedented scenario emerged after two candidates who had initially filed nomination forms between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. on the final day subsequently submitted withdrawal letters, leaving Professor Mahama as the sole contender. The candidates explained that their withdrawal was a sign of respect to the late Member of Parliament.
The Tamale Central seat became vacant following the tragic death of incumbent MP Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, who perished alongside seven other officials in a Ghana Air Force helicopter crash on August 6, 2025. The crash, which also claimed Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, occurred while officials were traveling to address illegal mining activities in the Ashanti region.
Professor Mahama’s path to Parliament began with the NDC’s internal selection process, where he emerged victorious from a field of twelve aspirants during the party’s parliamentary primary. He secured 840 votes to win the nomination, positioning himself as the party’s candidate for the by-election originally scheduled for September 30, 2025.
The Electoral Commission had extended the nomination deadline after initial interest from multiple potential candidates. Five individuals had initially expressed interest in the Tamale Central constituency by-election, but the field ultimately narrowed to just Professor Mahama following the withdrawals.
Earlier, the Tamale Metro EC Director, Samson Anaba, told the media that if the NDC candidate remained unopposed, he would be acclaimed on September 30, 2025, as Member of Parliament. The formal declaration has now accelerated that timeline.
The late Dr. Murtala Muhammed, who was re-elected to serve as Member of Parliament for Tamale Central Constituency in December 2024, had served multiple ministerial roles including Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, and previously as Deputy Minister for Information and Media Relations.
Professor Mahama’s unopposed victory eliminates the need for a contested by-election, saving the Electoral Commission resources while ensuring continued parliamentary representation for the Tamale Central constituency. The development also maintains the NDC’s hold on the seat, preserving the party’s parliamentary numbers ahead of the 2024 general elections.
The circumstances surrounding the victory reflect the unique political dynamics that emerged following the helicopter crash tragedy. The withdrawal of rival candidates out of respect for the deceased MP demonstrates how national tragedies can influence local political processes in Ghana’s democratic system.
For Professor Mahama, the unopposed victory represents both opportunity and responsibility. He inherits a constituency previously represented by a prominent minister who held significant influence within the NDC and Ghana’s political landscape. The new MP-elect faces expectations to continue the developmental work initiated by his predecessor while establishing his own political identity.
The Tamale Central constituency, located in Ghana’s Northern Region, represents a significant NDC stronghold where party loyalty traditionally runs deep. Professor Mahama’s academic background may bring fresh perspectives to the constituency’s representation, though he must navigate the transition from academic life to parliamentary politics.
The Electoral Commission’s handling of the nomination process and subsequent declaration demonstrates the institution’s adherence to constitutional procedures even under unusual circumstances. The application of CI 127 for unopposed candidates ensures legal compliance while maintaining electoral integrity.
This historic first in Ghana’s Fourth Republic may establish precedent for future situations where candidates run unopposed, though such scenarios remain rare in the country’s competitive political environment. The development highlights how extraordinary circumstances can create unique electoral outcomes within established democratic frameworks.
Professor Mahama is expected to take his parliamentary oath when the House reconvenes, formally beginning his tenure as the representative for Tamale Central constituency until the next general election.