Vice President of the policy think tank IMANI Africa, Kofi Bentil, has clarified that his endorsement of Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia for the 2024 presidential election does not represent the position of the organization.
In a recent statement, Bentil urged Ghanaians to consider giving Dr Bawumia a chance as president, emphasizing his belief that Bawumia is a stronger candidate compared to outgoing President John Dramani Mahama. Bentil highlighted that Bawumia, as the flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), should not be judged for the shortcomings of the current administration.
“We gave President Mahama a chance to be president; the least we can do is give Dr. Bawumia a fair and objective hearing. He is not president and has never been president! I have no doubt he will be better!” Bentil asserted in a provocative statement.
However, some members of the public raised concerns that Bentil’s endorsement might reflect IMANI Africa’s official stance, given his prominent position within the organization, which is known for its neutrality.
In response to these concerns, Bentil clarified during an interview on the News File show that his endorsement was personal and not representative of IMANI Africa’s position. He emphasized that IMANI typically issues statements or publications to express its views, and until such an official communication is made, his endorsement should be viewed as an individual opinion.
“You see, IMANI has not issued a statement telling you that this is what we’ve done. That is what we do when we have something to say at IMANI, we issue statements, we have a website, we do publications, we have presentations,” Bentil explained.
He further added, “We don’t have a problem speaking to and owning up to the things we say, regardless of how controversial or difficult they are. This is not IMANI, this is me, and I have the permission of my brothers in IMANI and the IMANI Board.”
Bentil’s clarification underscores the distinction between personal opinions and official stances taken by organizations, ensuring transparency and clarity in the public discourse surrounding political endorsements.