President Akufo-Addo has thrown a challenge to former President John Dramani Mahama, urging him to engage in a public debate with Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
During his tour of the Northern Region, President Akufo-Addo highlighted the growing calls from Ghanaians for a debate between the two leaders, noting that such a discourse is essential for informed decision-making ahead of the elections.
According to the President, Dr. Bawumia is a reliable and clear-minded leader who has proven his competence over time, making him more than capable of debating Mahama on the key issues facing the country. Akufo-Addo questioned why Mahama appears reluctant to confront Bawumia in a public forum, asserting that this hesitation raises doubts about Mahama’s ability to address critical national matters.
“The people of Ghana deserve the debate so they can see who is doing what and who is saying what,” Akufo-Addo said. He emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, particularly regarding crucial policies such as the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) initiative. The President pointedly asked Mahama to clarify his position on the policy, stating, “Mr. Mahama, which is which? What should the Ghanaian people take from you as your position on the Free SHS policy? Is it safe with you, and are you going to continue with it or are you going to cancel it?”
Akufo-Addo argued that it is essential for Ghanaians to hear both candidates articulate their visions for the future, especially on critical policies that impact the nation’s development. He reiterated that Vice President Bawumia is ready and willing to debate Mahama, calling on the former President to stop avoiding the opportunity for a direct exchange of ideas.
Akufo-Addo insisted that no one should be allowed to hold the highest office in the land if they cannot provide clear answers on fundamental issues like education. He urged Mahama to accept the challenge, noting that Ghanaians deserve a transparent and open debate between the two leaders before making their choice in the upcoming elections.