The Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) has established a nine-member committee tasked with organizing the presidential and vice-presidential debates ahead of Ghana’s 2024 general elections. The committee, inaugurated at the IEA headquarters in Accra yesterday, is chaired by former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo and is composed of prominent religious leaders, technocrats, and a foreign national.
The committee members include the Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church, Most Rev. Dr Paul Kwabena Boafo; President of the Catholic Bishops Conference, Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi; Dr Abubakar Mohammed Marzuq Azindoo, Personal Assistant to the National Chief Imam; Dr Lawrence Tetteh, Founding President of the Worldwide Miracle Outreach; and Rt Rev. Dr Samuel Sylvanus Mensah Torto, Diocesan Bishop of the Accra Diocese of the Anglican Church.
Other members are Dr Humphrey Ayim Darke, President of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI); Dr Kwabena Nyarko Otoo, Director of Research and Policy at the Trades Union Congress (TUC); and Salem Kifah Kalmoni, Managing Director of Japan Motors.
As part of its mandate, the committee will select presidential candidates for the debate, approve debate questions, choose moderators, and set the format and guidelines for the debates and evening encounters. They will also issue press statements and ensure the smooth execution of the events.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who recently challenged former President John Mahama to a debate in July, looks forward to the upcoming presidential debate. This provides an opportunity for both leaders to showcase their visions for the country ahead of the 2024 elections.
The presidential debates will be held in Accra and Kumasi in November, while the vice-presidential debate will take place in Accra. In October, registered presidential candidates will participate in evening encounters, answering questions from the public, media, and the IEA.
