Dr. Bawumia challenges Mahama to a debate on polices ahead of December elections
The Flagbearer of the NPP, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has dared former President and Flagbearer of the NDC, John Dramani Mahama, to a live presidential debate. This debate, according to Bawumia, is crucial for explaining their respective visions and policies to the people of Ghana.
Addressing thousands of supporters last night in Bunkpurugu, North East Region, Dr. Bawumia expressed his eagerness for a debate with Mahama. However, he was less optimistic about its occurrence, alleging that Mahama is “running away.”
“I am looking forward to a debate with John Mahama on the economy, on the country, on the governance,” Dr. Bawumia stated. “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 of an opposition leader who doesn’t want to debate. But he knows I will expose the emptiness of his policies.”
Dr. Bawumia also criticized former President Mahama and his team for their inability to explain their “24-hour economy” concept to Ghanaians, suggesting that Mahama is avoiding a debate to prevent being exposed.
“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,” Bawumia remarked.
“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.”
In advanced democracies, presidential debates are firmly rooted as part of the electoral process. Many, including civil society groups, have called for a debate between the two leading candidates in the election, to allow Ghanaians to hear their policies and visions for the country.
With Vice President Bawumia throwing down the challenge, the ball is now in former President Mahama’s court.
