Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has sparked controversy by challenging his contender, former President John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), to a national debate ahead of the December polls.
Critics have labeled Dr. Bawumia’s call for a debate as politically incorrect, accusing him of speaking from a position of deceit and lacking tangible achievements despite serving as Vice President for the past seven and a half years. They cite his tenure as head of the economic management team, accusing him of contributing to severe economic hardships in Ghana.
Former Deputy Ambassador to China, Horace Nii Ayi Ankrah, expressed these views on Ahotor 92.3 FM’s “Adekyee Mu Nsem” morning show hosted by Citizen Kofi Owusu in Accra. He criticized Dr. Bawumia for failing to address Ghana’s economic challenges effectively and accused him of being an accomplice to corruption and bad governance.
Ankrah questioned the rationale behind Dr. Bawumia’s call for a debate, suggesting that an independent institution, rather than a political candidate, should initiate such discussions to ensure impartial assessment of the country’s economic performance.
In response to Dr. Bawumia’s challenge, the John Mahama Campaign Team’s spokesperson, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, stated that there is no necessity for a debate between Mahama and Bawumia.
Dr. Bawumia, however, defended his stance during a campaign address in Nalerigu on Thursday, July 11. He accused Mahama of evading a debate because he fears being exposed for unrealistic promises. Dr. Bawumia labeled Mahama as “empty as an empty barrel” and expressed eagerness to engage him on issues concerning the economy, governance, and national policies.
“I’m looking forward to a debate with John Mahama,” Dr. Bawumia asserted. “But if he refuses, I will continue to communicate my policies to the country, and the people will make their decision.”
Story by: Alexander Kukah
