Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, has urged John Mahama, his opponent from the National Democratic Congress (NDC), to adopt a more respectful tone in his public statements.
At a campaign event in Accra on September 16, Dr. Bawumia criticized Mahama for using derogatory language against religious leaders, civil society groups, and traditional authorities, calling them “hypocrites” for their silence on national matters.
Dr. Bawumia expressed concern that such remarks diminish the respect associated with Mahama’s previous office.
He emphasized that these groups play a vital role in promoting unity and progress and should be treated with dignity rather than scorn.
“You all know I am competing with the former president to win this election. I think he has realised that he will lose the elections so he is always angry. I heard he insulted some pastors, chiefs, imam and CSOs saying they are hypocrites. He even insulted the ECG.”
“Today he said the NPP is a foolish government. Why would a former president say something like this? We must have some level of decency in the language we speak as politicians.”
Addressing Mahama’s recent comments, Dr. Bawumia questioned why a former president would resort to name-calling, such as labeling the NPP government as “foolish.”
He argued that elections should center on substantive policies rather than personal attacks.
“When you lack ideas, you begin to insult people but when you have ideas you present them. As for us, we have bold solutions to problems,” he said.
He defended the NPP’s record, asserting that their government has surpassed the achievements of the previous administration in various sectors, including job creation, infrastructure, and public services.
“You said we are a foolish government but we have created more jobs than your government, we have built more roads, interchanges, schools, factories, and hospitals than your government. Every sector of the economy that you can mention, we have done better but you are saying we are foolish.
“If you believe in yourself, come for a debate. He is scared because he knows I back my statements with data,” he said.
Dr. Bawumia challenged Mahama to a debate, confident in the NPP’s accomplishments and prepared to back up their claims with data.