Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, a former National Chair of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), has strongly advised John Dramani Mahama, the NDC flag bearer, against engaging in a debate with Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flag bearer. The call for a debate arose after Dennis Miracles Aboagye, the Director of Communications for the Bawumia Campaign, invited Mahama to a debate. However, Mr. Ofosu Ampofo believes that such a debate would serve no purpose due to Bawumia’s lack of credibility and consistent dishonesty over the years.
Instead of debating, Ofosu Ampofo suggests that Mahama focus on presenting his policies to the Ghanaian people. He emphasized that Bawumia’s track record of untrustworthiness makes any debate futile. “President Mahama is a trustworthy politician who has always stood by his word,” Mr. Ofosu Ampofo continued. “During his tenure as president, he demonstrated honesty and dedication to the people of Ghana. The same cannot be said about the current Vice President.”
Many Ghanaians look forward to a debate between candidates from the two major political parties ahead of the December 07 polls. Such a platform would offer voters the opportunity to make informed choices on election day. Although IMANI-Africa has extended invitations to both candidates for a debate, responses are still pending.
In summary, Ofosu Ampofo’s advice to Mahama is clear: avoid debating Bawumia and focus on policy communication instead. Whether Mahama heeds this counsel remains to be seen, but the stakes are high as the election draws near.