NPP’s withdrawal from Tamale Central by-election not out of sympathy – Asurayaga
The NPP announced last week that it would not field a candidate in the by-election, citing the need to honour the late Member of Parliament, Dr. Murtala Mohammed, and the eight others who died in the August 6 military helicopter crash.
Angelina Asurayaga, a member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Communications Team for the Chiana-Paga Constituency, has dismissed claims by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) that its withdrawal from the Tamale Central by-election was a gesture of sympathy and a bid to reduce tensions.
The NPP announced last week that it would not field a candidate in the by-election, citing the need to honour the late Member of Parliament, Dr. Murtala Mohammed, and the eight others who died in the August 6 military helicopter crash, as well as to avoid the acrimony often associated with such contests.
Speaking on the Big Mike Breakfast Show on Wednesday August 13, Asurayaga said that while the NDC accepts the NPP’s decision in good faith, she believes the real motivation lies elsewhere.
“The NPP didn’t withdraw because they want to mourn with us. Their reason is that they don’t want to waste their time and resources in a constituency they know they are going to lose. They want to mobilize resources and go to Akwatia,” she claimed.
Asurayaga added that the NPP’s participation would have made the by-election more competitive.
“If they are mourning with us, it is okay, but I’m just saying it would have been more interesting if they had come on board.” She noted.
Commenting on the NDC National Chairman’s call for party members not to rush in replacing the late MP, Asurayaga praised the move, saying it would ease tension among the many qualified aspirants.
“There are many competent people in the NDC, and because of that, any process to replace the late MP will be a serious one. So the call is in the right direction. Candidates who contest for this position should know that they are in to serve and not amass wealth for themselves.” She said.
The Electoral Commission is yet to officially announce a date for the Tamale Central by-election.
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