Professor Alidu Seidu Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially been declared the Member of Parliament-elect for Tamale Central, following a unique electoral process under Ghana’s Constitutional Instrument (CI) 127.
The declaration comes after the tragic passing of the former MP, Hon. Murtala Mohammed, which triggered a by-election. Initially, three candidates filed nominations from the NDC, People’s National Convention (PNC), and Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG). However, both the PNC and LPG candidates later withdrew, leaving Professor Mahama as the sole contender.
In accordance with CI 127, the Electoral Commission reopened nominations for 10 days to allow new entrants. With no additional candidates stepping forward, the Returning Officer, Mr. Muniru Musa, declared Professor Mahama elected unopposed.
This marks a historic moment in Ghana’s Fourth Republic, as Professor Mahama becomes the first MP to enter Parliament without a vote being cast. His swearing-in will increase the NDC’s seat count, granting the party a two-thirds majority in the 276-member legislature.
This strengthened position empowers the NDC to pursue constitutional amendments, including the proposed elimination of ex-gratia payments—an issue highlighted in their manifesto. Political analysts and citizens alike will be watching closely to see how the party leverages this new majority to drive legislative reforms.
