Nana Akomea, Deputy National Campaign Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has expressed astonishment at what he describes as the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) excessive apprehension regarding a potential presidential debate between Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and former President John Mahama.
Speaking on Joy News, Nana Akomea remarked on the NDC’s reluctance to debate, noting that the party’s numerous justifications for avoiding such an event indicate a profound panic.
He criticized the NDC for citing reasons such as Dr Bawumia’s alleged lack of debates with market women or accountability for his vice-presidential tenure.
“The NDC’s excuses seem frivolous and reveal their deep-seated alarm at the thought of John Mahama facing Dr. Bawumia in a debate,” Akomea stated. He highlighted that a debate would allow Mahama and the NDC to challenge Bawumia on various issues they have raised against him, suggesting that the NDC’s avoidance tactics are unwarranted.
Akomea further criticized the NDC’s criticism of the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) for proposing to host the debate, accusing the party of undermining credible institutions in its efforts to evade it.
“By avoiding a debate, the NDC is signalling to voters that they recognize John Mahama is not on par with Dr Bawumia,” Akomea concluded, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in electoral campaigns.
The debate over a potential debate highlights tensions and strategic manoeuvring as Ghana approaches its next presidential election.
