The Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) has taken a significant step towards promoting informed discourse and civic engagement in the lead-up to the 2024 general elections. On Thursday August 22nd 2024, the IEA inaugurated a 9-member presidential debate committee, comprising esteemed individuals from various fields.
The committee’s primary objective is to engage political parties and facilitate their participation in the upcoming presidential and vice-presidential debates. The IEA had previously announced plans to host these debates in October and November, respectively, to provide a platform for candidates to outline their policies and visions.
The presidential debate committee boasts an impressive lineup, including Justice Sophia Akuffo, Dr. Humphrey Ayim-Darke, Dr. Abukari Mohammed Marzaq Azindoo, Rev. Father Charles Boampong Sarfo, and Most Reverend Dr. Paul Kwabena Boafo, among others. Addressing the media, Chairperson Justice Sophia Akuffo expressed the committee’s readiness to commence its work and ensure the participation of political parties.
The committee aims to enhance the credibility of the debate process by making it more people-centred and issue-based. Specifically, the committee seeks to create a unique platform for presidential candidates to outline their policies and visions of governance for the country.
The ultimate goal is to inform and empower citizens to make informed decisions at the elections, promoting peace before, during, and after the elections. By inaugurating this committee, the IEA has demonstrated its commitment to promoting democratic values and contributing to a peaceful and informed electoral process.
