We Have No Desire To Debate Bawumia – Mahama Running From Challenge?
Joyce Bawah Mogtari, the spokesperson for the John Mahama Campaign Team, has dismissed calls for a pre-election debate between the NDC flagbearer, John Mahama, and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the NPP. Despite appeals from political analysts and stakeholders, Bawah Mogtari believes a debate between the two major contenders is unnecessary.
In an interview on The Point of View on Channel One TV, Bawah Mogtari praised Mahama’s exceptional energy and vast knowledge. However, she unexpectedly hesitated to accept a debate invitation, citing the current government’s performance as a reason to forego the debate. She expressed confidence in John Mahama’s ability to outshine any presidential aspirant in a debate, suggesting that a debate would merely underscore Mahama’s superiority.
“I personally have no appetite for a debate. I think that we debate when we literally know that our issues are probably parallel. When I look at what we have, when I look at the current trajectory, when I look at the failings of this particular administration, I ask myself why do we need to put up with a debate? But of course, this is a decision that the upper people usually will make,” she stated.
Bawah Mogtari acknowledged that the decision is not hers to make and left room for future discussions on the matter. Reflecting on past debates between Mahama and then-candidate Akufo-Addo, she emphasized Mahama’s proven debate skills and unparalleled knowledge.
“We do know all about the debates between John Mahama and then candidate Akufo-Addo and we know who won those debates. So, I believe that the fact that Mr Mahama is a man whose energy and knowledge is unparalleled is not in doubt. And I’m sure on any day, whomever, I know he’s going to win the debate. But I don’t think that immediately I will want to see that you put them through strict proof first,” she told host Bernard Avle.
This stance from the Mahama campaign suggests a strategic decision to focus on other aspects of the campaign rather than engaging in a direct debate with the opposition.