Presidential debate: Nobody should be allowed to be president if he can’t answer questions straightforwardly — Akufo-Addo jabs Mahama

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has said no presidential candidate should be allowed to be President if he/she cannot engage in a debate for Ghanaians to ask questions for straightforward answers on key social and economic issues.

During a recent tour of the Northern Region, President Akufo-Addo challenges former President John Dramani Mahama to participate in a debate with Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, questioning Mahama's apparent reluctance to engage.

The President lauded Dr. Bawumia as a capable and trustworthy leader, highlighting the importance of Ghanaians hearing both candidates present their ideas and policies ahead of the upcoming elections.

"Bawumia is someone who is reliable and is someone who can be trusted and someone who is clear-minded and that is why the majority of Ghanaians are saying that they want Mahama to debate Bawumia on the key issues of our country. Why is John Mahama running away from the debate? Bawumia says he is ready any day to debate. So why is Mahama running away from the debate."

"The people of Ghana deserve the debate so they can see who is doing what and who is saying what. 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? Nobody should be allowed to be president if he can’t answer this question straightforwardly," he stated.

Akufo-Addo described Dr. Bawumia as a consistent and proven leader, arguing that a debate between Mahama and the Vice President would provide voters with an essential platform to evaluate their choices.

He suggested that Mahama's avoidance of the debate might stem from an inability to effectively counter Dr. Bawumia's arguments and track record. The President emphasized that such reluctance denies Ghanaians the transparent discussion they deserve.

Akufo-Addo stressed the importance of open debate in a democracy, urging both candidates to take this opportunity to present their visions for Ghana’s future. He concluded by calling on Mahama to face Dr. Bawumia, asserting that the nation deserves to hear both perspectives before making a decision at the polls.