Member of Parliament for Anyaa-Sowutuom, Dr. Dickson Adomako Kissi, has explained that the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) decision not to contest the Tamale Central by-election is a matter of political pragmatism, not fear or mere sympathy.
Speaking on Channel One TV, Adomako Kissi described Tamale Central as a seat that has “consistently been green” for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and said the numbers from the last election left “no doubt” the odds were not in the NPP’s favour.
“This is, in very simple terms, capitulation,” he said candidly. “But fear is not what it is… The numbers for Tamale Central are not favorable, and as a serious party, this one wouldn’t be worth all the hassles related to a by-election contest.”
He noted that the NDC has similarly chosen not to contest in certain constituencies where the outcome is almost predetermined, describing the NPP’s move as a strategic choice to “choose our battles.”
The MP also used the opportunity to reiterate his call for electoral reforms to scrap by-elections altogether, proposing that when a parliamentary seat becomes vacant, it should remain with the party that won it until the end of the four-year term.
Citing security concerns and past violent incidents during by-elections, Adomako Kissi argued that this approach would reduce political tensions and prevent unnecessary clashes. “If we want fewer incidents around by-elections, then no by-election. Leave the seat for the party that held it,” he urged.
The Tamale Central seat became vacant following the passing of MP Mutala Mohammed. The NPP’s decision not to field a candidate means the NDC is widely expected to retain the seat.
