We Haven’t Decided On IEA Debate – Lawson Contradicts Anyidoho

Deputy General Secretary of the NDC, George Lawson

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) appears to be undecided on whether it will take part in the presidential debates to be organized by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) ahead of the November polls.

One of the party’s Deputy General Secretaries, Koku Ayindoho, categorically stated in a Citi News interview that President John Dramani Mahama will not take part in the debate.

Speaking to Citi News Mr. Ayindoho said his party would not allow themselves to be disrespected by the IEA.

Various political parties have chastised the IEA for what they describe as disrespectful and unfair arrangements adopted for this year’s presidential debates.

The NDC also expressed displeasure with the IEA for not consulting them before its announcement on the debate, with the party’s National Organizer, Kofi Adams, describing their actions as disrespectful.

Party has not yet taken an official stance
But the other Deputy General Secretary of the NDC, George Lawson, has said that Koku Ayindoho’s comment does not represent the entire party’s position on the matter.

Speaking on Eyewitness News, he noted that when the party takes an official position, it would be via a press conference or a statement.

“Anytime we come with the position, either we will call a press conference or we issue a press statement. When it is the position of the party, either a press conference is called or a statement is issued to that effect,” Mr. Lawson reiterated.

Mr. Lawson also intimated that the decision to attend the debates also did not lie in President Mahama’s hands but in the hands of the party.

According to him, “When it comes to these debates, the power lies within the party… We have the prerogative. We decide whether the person should go or not.”

The Deputy General Secretary was clear on the fact he would support any decision taken by the party concerning the presidential debate but he also stated that he personally wanted the party to boycott the debate.

“I support the position [the party will arrive at]. When it is tabled, I will support it… if a decision is taken, it is arrived at, it is conclusive, I will support it.”

“We have individual positions and I support the boycotting of the IEA debates. I am in support of that so that is my position,” he added.