President Nana Akufo-Addo has challenged former President John Mahama to engage in a public debate with Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia ahead of the upcoming December elections.
Dr. Bawumia, along with several members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has repeatedly called on the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer for a debate. However, the NDC has consistently declined the invitation, stating that their candidate will not engage in a debate with Dr. Bawumia.
During a meeting with chiefs in Tamale on Wednesday, October 16, President Akufo-Addo urged Mahama to stop avoiding direct confrontation with Bawumia, stressing that open dialogue is a key element of democracy.
He called on the NDC flagbearer to debate Bawumia in order to clarify his stance on several important issues.
“We need someone reliable, whose work can be trusted, who is consistent and clear-minded,” President Akufo-Addo stated. “That’s why many of us in Ghana are saying we want Mahama and Bawumia to debate the pressing issues in our country.”
He questioned Mahama’s reluctance to participate, adding, “Why is John Mahama avoiding the debate? Dr. Bawumia is ready at any time. The people of Ghana deserve this debate to see who is representing what, and what they stand for.”
The President particularly highlighted Mahama’s unclear position on the Free Senior High School policy, asking, “Mr. Mahama, what should Ghanaians take as your stance on free senior high school? Will you continue it, review it, or cancel it? These are straightforward questions, and anyone aspiring to lead the country must be able to answer them directly.”