Halid Abdul Rauf, the National Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has withdrawn from the race to contest the Tamale Central by-election, just one day after picking up nomination forms.
In a statement released Saturday, Mr. Rauf, a lawyer, said the decision followed “deep reflection and extensive consultations” with family members, party elders, and grassroots supporters. The Tamale Central seat became vacant following the death of incumbent MP Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Murtala in a helicopter crash earlier this month that also claimed the lives of seven others.
Mr. Rauf cited three main factors for stepping aside: longstanding ties between his family and that of the late lawmaker, the high number of aspirants already in the race, and guidance from party and community leaders.
“This was not an easy decision,” Mr. Rauf said. “But I believe it is in the best interest of party unity and the legacy of our late brother and comrade.”
His withdrawal reduces the number of declared aspirants from 14 to 13, according to officials. No additional candidates submitted nominations on the second day of the nomination window, which closes Sunday.
The NDC is seeking to retain control of the Tamale Central seat in a race that is expected to test party cohesion following the loss of one of its prominent lawmakers. The filing of nominations is scheduled for Aug. 28.
Mr. Rauf thanked party executives and supporters for their encouragement, urging members to rally behind the eventual nominee to secure victory in the upcoming contest.
Source:TheDotNews