It has been belatedly revealed that IMANI Center for Policy and Education extended an invitation to the flagbearers of Ghana’s two main political parties for a critical debate ahead of the 2024 general elections, with increasing calls for participation from all sides.
In a Facebook post, IMANI announced they have received a response from the office of John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), but are still awaiting a response from Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Notably, Dr. Bawumia has publicly called for a debate with Mahama, showcasing his commitment to a transparent and engaging political discourse.
The formal invitation, addressed to the candidates in June, highlights the importance of the event.
“On behalf of the IMANI Center for Policy and Education, I am pleased to extend a formal invitation to your esteemed party (The New Patriotic Party) to participate in the upcoming National Election Debate. A schedule of the event’s date and venue will be communicated to your office soon. The debate aims to provide a critical platform for the major political parties in Ghana to present their policies and vision to the electorate in the lead-up to the 2024 general elections.”
IMANI emphasizes that a national debate is crucial for promoting transparency and engaging voters meaningfully. This falls in line with Dr. Bawumia’s proactive stance on debating Mahama highlights the NPP’s dedication to addressing the electorate’s concerns and presenting their vision for the future.
The call for a debate reflects the increasing demand for political accountability and voter engagement in Ghana. The participation of both flagbearers, along with their party leadership, is seen as essential for a robust and transparent electoral process. As the nation awaits the NPP’s formal response, the anticipation for a comprehensive debate continues to build among voters and political analysts alike.
