Flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) and Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has said that his opponent of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama may be shying away from a live debate with him because he cannot explain his policies.

In many countries, especially the developed ones, presidential debates are an essential component of the electoral process, as they offer voters the opportunity to listen to the contenders.

Ahead of December's presidential elections, several Ghanaians have called for a debate between Vice President Bawumia and former President Mahama.

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Now, Dr Bawumia himself has added his voice to the call, and he has challenged Mahama, his main opponent in the elections, to a live national debate on key issues such as the economy, governance and policies.

However, Dr Bawumia added that despite his readiness to debate, Mahama "is running away" because he cannot explain his policies during a debate.

"I am looking forward to a debate with John Mahama on the economy, on the country, on 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."

"He says he has a 24-hour economy which he cannot explain. It is as empty as an empty barrel. He cannot explain it and none of his people can explain it. They say they will be exporting lions and elephants."

"When we meet, we can debate and the country will see where our policies lie and that is where we should go. We should give the country an opportunity to listen to us. If he chooses not to debate, I'll continue to sell my policies."

With many calling for a debate between the two, and Dr Bawumia throwing a direct challenge, it now remains to be seen whether the former President will oblige him.

This call comes not long after the campaign team of the former President rejected calls for any presidential debate.

Many, including civil society groups, have called for a debate between the two leading candidates of the election, for Ghanaians to listen to them on their policies and vision for the country.

Meanwhile, Mr Mahama has been commended for his recent media engagement during which he answered several questions thrown at him.

Others have called on the NPP's Dr Bawumia to hold a similar media engagement.