President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has challenged former President John Dramani Mahama to engage in a debate with Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, questioning why Mahama seems reluctant to do so.

During a recent tour of the Northern Region, President Akufo-Addo praised Dr Bawumia as a clear-minded individual who is capable and trustworthy, emphasising that Ghanaians deserve to hear both candidates present their ideas and policies.

President Akufo-Addo described Dr Bawumia as a consistent leader who has proven his mettle over time.

He argued that a debate between Mahama and Bawumia would provide an essential platform for voters to evaluate their choices ahead of the upcoming elections.

The President believes that such an exchange would foster informed decision-making among the electorate.

Further criticising Mahama, President Akufo-Addo suggested that the former President is evading the debate because he is unable to stand up to the Vice President's arguments and track record.

He insisted that this reluctance does a disservice to Ghanaians, who are eager for a transparent discussion of the issues at stake.

The President reiterated that engaging in open debate is crucial for democracy and that both candidates should take this opportunity to showcase their visions for Ghana's future.

He urged Mahama to confront Dr Bawumia, stating that the nation deserves to hear both sides and make a decisive choice in the upcoming elections.

"Bawumia is someone who is reliable and is someone who can be trusted and someone who is clear-minded and that is why the majority of Ghanaians are saying that they want Mahama to debate Bawumia on the key issues of our country. Why is John Mahama running away from the debate? Bawumia says he is ready any day to debate. So why is Mahama running away from the debate."

"The people of Ghana deserve the debate so they can see who is doing what and who is saying what. Mr Mahama, which is which? What should the Ghanaian people take from you as your position on the Free SHS policy? Is it safe with you and are you going to continue with it or are you going to cancel it? Nobody should be allowed to be president if he can’t answer this question straightforwardly," he stated.