Halid Abdul Rauf, the National Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has officially withdrawn his candidacy for the Tamale Central parliamentary by-election, just one day after obtaining his nomination forms.

In a press statement released on Saturday, August 23, Rauf—a practising lawyer—articulated that his decision came after “deep reflection and extensive consultations” with his family, party elders, and grassroots supporters within the NDC.

His thoughtful approach underscores the gravity of the situation following the recent loss of the former MP.

Rauf outlined three key reasons for his withdrawal: the close familial ties between his family and that of the late MP, Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Murtala; the overwhelming number of candidates vying for the nomination; and the sage advice he received from party elders and community 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,” he stated, reflecting on the weight of the decision.

His exit from the race reduces the number of aspirants from fourteen to thirteen, a significant shift in the competitive landscape of the by-election. Despite Rauf stepping back, no new candidates emerged to pick up nomination forms on the second day of the process, indicating a consolidation of aspirants as the election date approaches.

Rauf expressed heartfelt gratitude to the national and regional executives of the NDC, his family, and all party supporters for their confidence in him. He emphasized the importance of unity among NDC members to honor Dr. Murtala’s legacy and to secure a victory in the upcoming by-election. “It is essential that we come together as a party to ensure that we continue the work that Dr. Murtala was committed to,” he urged.

The Tamale Central parliamentary seat became vacant following the tragic helicopter crash that occurred three weeks ago, resulting in the loss of Dr. Murtala and seven others. This pivotal moment has heightened emotions in the constituency, with many hoping for a candidate who can continue the late MP’s vision.

As the nomination period progresses, with deadlines set to close on Sunday, August 24, and the filing of nominations scheduled for Thursday, August 28, the NDC is now focused on rallying behind a singular candidate who can effectively carry forward the party’s objectives in the upcoming election.

The party faces a critical task ahead as it seeks to fill the void left by Dr. Murtala and maintain its influence in the Tamale Central constituency, a seat that has historically been vital to its electoral strategy. With Rauf’s departure, the NDC is now tasked with unifying its supporters to ensure a strong showing in the by-election.