Ex-president John Mahama Must Debate Dr. Bawumia: A Call for Accountability and Transparency

Ghanaians are gearing up for yet another election season, and our democracy deserves leaders who are willing to engage openly, discuss policies, and demonstrate their readiness to serve. The recent back-and-forth between former President John Dramani Mahama and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the sitting Vice President, on the matter of a public debate has stirred discussions nationwide. Dr. Bawumia has expressed his willingness to participate in a debate, yet Mahama dismissed the offer, claiming Dr. Bawumia isn’t his “mate” in terms of political experience. But is that response enough for Ghanaians?

The questions we should be asking are clear: is Mahama hesitant because he fears his performance might pale in comparison to Bawumia’s? Does he believe that his record, spanning his time as both Vice President and President, can not stand up to the scrutiny a debate would bring? Or is he concerned that Bawumia might expose areas where he could have performed better?

Ghanaians have a right to hold their leaders accountable, especially when they are seeking our mandate to govern once again. A debate between Mahama and Bawumia would provide voters with a much-needed opportunity to hear these two individuals address the nation’s most pressing issues. It would allow both men to present their records, discuss their visions, and let Ghanaians make an informed choice.

_Experience vs. Competence_

While Mahama boasts years of experience, having served as Vice President, Minister of State, and President, this experience alone does not necessarily make him a superior candidate. Dr. Bawumia, with a background in economics and his tenure as Vice President, has introduced various initiatives and economic policies that he believes are beneficial to Ghana’s future. A debate would allow us to see whose experience and policies align best with the current needs of Ghanaians.

It’s important to remember that the essence of a debate is not to highlight who has held more positions, but to demonstrate competence, foresight, and a commitment to addressing the issues that matter to the people. We are not voting based on titles or years in office; we’re voting for the candidate who can deliver.

_Why a Debate Matters_

Mahama recently raised five critical questions about governance, accountability, and policy that he believes Ghanaians deserve answers to. Yet, if he believes these questions are essential, wouldn’t a debate with Dr. Bawumia be the perfect platform to raise them face-to-face? This interaction would not only allow Mahama to challenge Bawumia directly but would also give Bawumia the chance to respond openly, allowing voters to assess each candidate’s policies, ideas, and leadership style.

Debates are crucial in democracies because they showcase the candidates’ mental agility, depth of knowledge, and their ability to handle tough questions. As the 2024 election approaches, Ghanaians are tired of the “trial and error” approach. We need leaders who are transparent and willing to be tested, especially by their opponents.

_A Plea for Accountability and Transparency_

Ghanaians should not accept evasiveness from any candidate seeking our mandate. When Mahama dismisses the idea of debating Bawumia, he is essentially denying the people an opportunity to see both candidates side-by-side, comparing their plans for Ghana. If Mahama can not engage in a public debate now, it raises concerns about his willingness to be accountable if he becomes president again.

Civil society organizations (CSOs) and advocates for democracy should lend their voices to this call. Compelling Mahama to debate Dr. Bawumia would set a precedent that anyone aspiring to the highest office in the land must be willing to face the nation and defend their vision for its future.

In the end, if Mahama refuses to debate, voters may interpret his reluctance as an inability to engage constructively with his opponents. In a democracy, this is unacceptable. We deserve a leader who values transparency and who is not afraid of public scrutiny. The stakes are high, and Ghanaians deserve the chance to see both candidates thoroughly assessed on a level playing field.

Finally, if ex-president John Mahama truly seeks to earn the confidence of the people, he should not shy away from a debate. Let him face Dr. Bawumia, address the issues, and allow the electorate to see which of the two is best suited to lead Ghana. And if he refuses, then it may indeed be time for Ghanaians to reconsider whether he deserves another chance to lead. A word to the wise is enough.

_Asare B Yamoah_, national coordinator, Chamber of Small Scale Mining Industries