Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s recent call for a debate with former President John Mahama has reignited a familiar political spectacle in Ghana. While the call itself may seem like a straightforward invitation to engage in a public discourse on national issues, it has sparked a wave of criticism and cynicism, particularly concerning its potential impact on the current economic crisis.
Many are questioning the essence of this debate, arguing that its outcome will likely have no tangible effect on the current economic realities facing Ghanaians. The persistent depreciation of the cedi, hovering around 15 to the dollar, is a stark reminder of the dire situation, and many feel that a debate, however engaging, will not magically address this pressing issue.
The skepticism is further amplified by the fact that Dr. Bawumia himself, when facing a similar call for a debate from Mahama in 2016, famously dismissed the request. He advised Mahama to ‘go to the market and debate his concerns first,’ implying that the current economic issues were more pressing than a public debate. This past response has now resurfaced, adding a layer of hypocrisy to the current situation and fueling the perception that Dr. Bawumia’s call is a calculated political maneuver rather than a genuine attempt to engage in meaningful dialogue.
Beyond the economic concerns, there’s also a growing sense of frustration with the apparent lack of serious policy proposals from the ruling party. The recent controversy surrounding Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh’s comments comparing the Akufo-Addo government to Dr. Kwame Nkrumah has further highlighted the absence of concrete solutions. Many feel that instead of engaging in debates that may appear superficial, the governing party should focus on addressing the pressing economic and social issues facing the nation.
The public is demanding concrete solutions and tangible results, not empty rhetoric and political theatrics. Dr. Bawumia must confront this growing dissatisfaction by presenting a clear vision for the future and demonstrating a commitment to addressing the real concerns of Ghanaians. Ultimately, the ‘essence’ of this debate lies not in the spectacle of a clash between personalities, but in the potential for genuine dialogue that leads to concrete solutions and a brighter future for all Ghanaians.
Godwin Owusu Frimpong
