The Minority in Parliament has rejected the Majority caucus’ calls for a presidential debate between John Mahama and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. On Wednesday, July 24, the Majority caucus reiterated their demands for a debate, arguing it would allow Ghanaians to compare the two parties and determine who is better equipped to manage the economy.
However, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, speaking on behalf of the Minority, dismissed the idea, stating that a “driver’s mate” like Bawumia did not qualify to debate an experienced driver like Mahama. Forson suggested that the Vice President should first debate the Minority’s spokespersons on the economy and budget before considering a debate with the former president.
He emphasized that the Vice President, as the Chairman of the Economic Management team, should debate the Minority’s finance spokesperson, Honourable Adongo. Alternatively, Forson proposed that Bawumia could debate the Minority’s economy spokesperson, Honourable Kwaku Ricketts Hagan, or the budget spokesperson, Honourable Ampem Darko.
Forson reiterated that a “driver’s mate” cannot debate an experienced driver, emphasizing that Bawumia is not qualified to debate Mahama. He threw down the challenge, saying Bawumia should first debate the Minority’s spokespersons before considering a debate with Mahama.
The Minority’s rejection of the debate calls highlights the ongoing tensions between the two parties ahead of the December polls. Forson’s comments underscore the Minority’s confidence in Mahama’s experience and leadership abilities, while questioning Bawumia’s qualifications to lead the country.
