The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has declared its full preparedness for the forthcoming by-election in the Tamale Central constituency, scheduled for October 30, after the close of nominations for prospective parliamentary aspirants.
Speaking on Channel One TV on Sunday, 24 August, the party’s Deputy Director of Elections and IT, Rashid Tanko-Computer, assured that all arrangements were proceeding according to plan and in line with the party’s internal procedures.
“We are ready for the 30 October by-election in Tamale Central. As of today, nominations for aspirants have officially closed,” he said.
He noted that the next stage would take place on Thursday, August 28, when individuals who had picked nomination forms would be required to submit them formally.
“We will now wait until Thursday, 28 August, to see who submits their forms to validate their intention to contest,” Mr Tanko-Computer explained.
Following submissions, the party will hold its vetting exercise on 31 August to evaluate the eligibility, competence and commitment of aspirants.
“The vetting on 31 August will enable us to assess their qualifications, capabilities, and fidelity to both the NDC constitution and the national constitution,” he added.
The Tamale Central by-election was necessitated by a vacancy in the seat, and political watchers anticipate a competitive race.
However, the NDC has expressed confidence in retaining the constituency, stressing that its priority is to ensure a transparent and credible selection process.
Meanwhile, two of the 14 individuals who initially picked nomination forms have withdrawn from the contest, citing personal reasons and the high number of contestants.
This leaves 12 aspirants expected to file nominations to vie for the party’s ticket in the upcoming by-election.