Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s flagbearer, has challenged former President John Dramani Mahama, the NDC’s flagbearer, to participate in a live presidential debate in order to elucidate their visions and policies to the citizens of Ghana.
Speaking to a large crowd of supporters in Bunkpurugu, North East Region, Dr. Bawumia expressed his eagerness for the debate with Mahama. Nevertheless, he expressed doubt that the debate will take place, as he believes Mahama is avoiding it.
I am looking forward to a debate with John Mahama on the economy, on the country on the governance.
But I am afraid that he is running away from a debate. His people say he doesn’t want to debate. I have never heard an opposition leader who doesn’t want to debate. But he knows I will expose the emptiness of his policies.
Dr. Bawumia stated that the previous President Mahama and his associates have failed to clarify their 24-hour economy plan to the people of Ghana, leading them to steer clear of engaging in a debate.
He says he has a 24-hour economy which he cannot explain. It is as empty as an empty barrel. He cannot explain it and none of his people can explain it. They say they will be exporting lions and elephants.
When we meet mano a mano, we can debate and the country will see where our policies lie and that is where we should go. We should give the country an opportunity to listen to us. If he chooses not to debate, I’ll continue to sell my policies.
Presidential debates are an integral component of the electoral process in developed democracies. Numerous citizens of Ghana, along with civil society organizations, have urged for a debate to take place between the top two candidates in the election.
With Vice President Bawumia issuing the challenge to his rival, the decision now rests with Mr. Mahama.
