Presidential debate can inform voters’ decisions – Fredrick Oduro

Governance Expert, Dr. Fredrick Oduro has stressed on the significance of presidential debates in informing voters’ decisions.

In an interview on Morning Starr with Lantam Papanko, Dr. Oduro highlighted the importance of spontaneity in debates.

“I believe some people would want to look at your oratory. Some people would want to look at how well you think on your feet.

“The questions are coming to you in a spontaneous manner. And you have to think on your feet and respond to it”, Dr. Oduro stated.

He noted that debates reveal a candidate’s consistency, candidness, and ability to think critically under pressure.

When asked if the two leading candidates should engage in a debate, Dr. Oduro responded “on a personal level, I think it would be good for the two leading candidates. And if possible, I would go on and say even their running mates should also be in a debate.”

He suggested limiting the debate to the top two candidates due to the lack of serious third force in Ghanaian politics.

Dr. Oduro also acknowledged the potential benefits of including other candidates, such as Alan Chermantey and Dr. Abu Sankara, but emphasized the need for seriousness and substance in the debate process.

According to him, a well-structured debate can help voters make informed decisions, “Discerning people would be able to tell that this person is candid here, that person is not on top of the issue here and all that.”

Background

The Flagbearer of the NPP, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has dared former President Mahama and Flagbearer of the NDC, John Mahama, for a live Presidential debate to explain their respective vision and policies to the people of Ghana.

Addressing thousands of his supporters last night in Bunkpurugu, North East Region, Dr. Bawumia said he was eagerly waiting for a debate with Mahama, but he was less optimistic that would happen because Mahama is “running away.”

“I am looking forward to a debate with John Mahama on the economy, on the country on the governance,’ Dr. Bawumia said.

“But I am afraid that he is running away from a debate. His people say he doesn’t want to debate. I have never heard of an opposition leader who doesn’t want to debate. But he knows I will expose the emptiness of his policies.”

Dr. Bawumia added that former President Mahama and his team are unable to explain their 24-hour economy to Ghanaians, adding that the former President is avoiding a debate because he will be exposed.