National Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Halid Abdul Rauf, has officially withdrawn from the Tamale Central parliamentary by-election, barely 24 hours after picking up nomination forms.

In a statement issued on Saturday, August 23, 2025, he explained that his decision came after ‘deep reflection and extensive consultations’ with his family, party elders, and grassroots supporters of the NDC.

Rauf said three main factors influenced his decision: the close relationship between his family and that of the late MP, Dr Ibrahim Mohammed Murtala; the large number of aspirants who have expressed interest in the race; and the advice of party elders and family leaders.

“I have taken the difficult but necessary decision to withdraw my candidacy from the race to replace our beloved late Member of Parliament for the Tamale Central Constituency,” the statement said.

EC sets September 30 for Tamale Central by-election

He expressed gratitude to the national and regional executives of the NDC, his family, and party supporters for the confidence shown in him.

Halid Abdul Rauf also urged unity within the party to safeguard the legacy of the late MP and secure victory in the upcoming by-election.

The Tamale Central seat became vacant following a helicopter crash three weeks ago that claimed the life of Dr Murtala and seven others.

Nominations for the by-election are expected to close on Sunday, August 24, 2025, with the filing of nominations scheduled for Thursday, August 28, 2025, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

NPP Race: Bryan Acheampong’s camp reacts to Global Info Analytics poll

MRA/EB

Meanwhile, watch the trailer to GhanaWeb’s upcoming documentary on teenage girls and how fish is stealing their futures below: