Tamale Central stands at a decisive moment. The passing of our beloved Member of Parliament, Hon. Murtala Ibrahim, has left a void that demands not just continuity but also bold, visionary leadership. The constituency needs a leader who can honour the legacy of the past while shaping the future with wisdom and innovation. That leader is Alhaji Alhassan Mbalba.
Born and nurtured in Tamale Central, Alhaji Mbalba embodies the values, struggles, and aspirations of his people. His story is one of service, discipline, and humility. With over 25 years of professional experience as a qualified social worker and safeguarding manager in the United Kingdom, he has led multi-agency teams, protected vulnerable families, and delivered practical solutions to complex social problems. Politically, he has proven himself as Chairman of NDC UK & Ireland Chapter and Chairman of Dagbon Union UK, uniting people, mobilising resources, and projecting the values of the NDC both at home and abroad.
A Mission Rooted in Service and Vision
Alhaji Mbalba’s mission is clear: to offer Tamale Central inclusive, accountable, and transformative leadership. His priorities include:
- Continuing the Legacy of Hon. Murtala Ibrahim: Completing ongoing projects and upholding his fearless commitment to justice and service.
- Youth Empowerment and Employment: Equipping young people through skills training, apprenticeships, and entrepreneurship programs while attracting diaspora investment to create sustainable businesses and jobs.
- Tackling the Drug Menace: Establishing a modern rehabilitation centre in Tamale Central to provide counselling, prevention, and recovery support for affected youth while educating the wider community.
- Education and Skills Development: Supporting schools, mentoring the youth, and promoting equal access to higher education and vocational training for all, especially girls.
- Healthcare and Wellbeing: Expanding healthcare access, promoting mental health, and linking Tamale Central to international partnerships and resources.
- Inclusive Leadership: Building consensus through chiefs, elders, women, youth, and religious leaders while ensuring transparency and accountability in governance.
There is a Dagbon saying: “The one who listens to the drum knows the direction of the town.” Alhaji Mbalba listens to the heartbeat of Tamale Central. He understands the needs of the people and is prepared to lead with both vision and humility.
A Call to Action
Delegates and citizens of Tamale Central, this by-election is not just about filling a seat in Parliament. It is about choosing a leader who can combine tradition with progress, humility with courage, and continuity with transformation.
Alhaji Alhassan Mbalba pledges to serve with integrity, passion, and accountability. With him, Tamale Central will not only continue the good work of the late Hon. Murtala Ibrahim but will also rise to new heights of opportunity, dignity, and development.
Let us come together and support Alhaji Alhassan Mbalba, the servant-leader with the mission and vision to transform Tamale Central.
By Christian Aboagye, Social Worker, Mental Health Practitioner, Elected Governor for Greater Manchester Mental Health Services (Social Care Staff), Youth Organiser for NDC Manchester Branch.
