The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has openly criticized recent remarks made by former President John Dramani Mahama, describing them as indecent and inappropriate for someone who has previously held the highest office in the land. Dr. Bawumia’s comments come in response to Mahama’s harsh criticism of certain Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and religious leaders, whom Mahama accused of hypocrisy for not speaking out against the current NPP government.
During his campaign tour in the Amasaman constituency on Monday, Dr. Bawumia addressed supporters and expressed his disapproval of Mahama’s statements. He highlighted that, as a former president, Mahama should be held to a higher standard of political discourse. According to Bawumia, Mahama’s recent statements undermine the dignity of the office he once held, particularly his attack on religious leaders and CSOs, whom he labeled as hypocrites for their silence on national issues.
“You all know that the December polls are between myself and former President Mahama, but we all know, and he also knows, that he will fail, so he gets peeved at the least thing,” Bawumia told the gathering. He continued, “I have heard that today he insulted pastors, chiefs, imams, and CSOs, saying they are all hypocrites. Have you heard this before?” Bawumia’s rhetorical question underscored his shock at the former president’s remarks, suggesting that Mahama’s tone and choice of words were unbecoming of someone who has served as head of state.
The Vice President did not hold back in further criticism of Mahama’s conduct, pointing out other instances where Mahama allegedly insulted key institutions in the country, including the Electoral Commission (EC) and the NPP government. “Is that how a former president should speak? Recently too, he insulted the EC and said that the NPP government is foolish. Have you heard this before?” Dr. Bawumia questioned, as he sought to highlight the inappropriateness of Mahama’s language in the political arena.
Dr. Bawumia stressed that there should be a minimum standard of decency in the way political figures communicate, especially in the lead-up to national elections. He urged for a political environment based on ideas and constructive debate, rather than insults and personal attacks. “Is that how a former president should speak? We must have some standards of decency in the language we speak as politicians. This election is about ideas, not insults,” he stated firmly.
The December polls are shaping up to be a critical contest between Dr. Bawumia, representing the ruling NPP, and John Mahama of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). Both men are seeking to rally their respective support bases ahead of what is expected to be a highly competitive election. However, Dr. Bawumia has been clear in his stance that the campaign should focus on policies and governance rather than the exchange of insults.
In addition to his call for decency, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the need for constructive discourse that addresses the real issues facing Ghanaians, such as economic development, job creation, and national security. He stated that the NPP is committed to presenting its track record and vision for the future, and that this should be the basis of political competition, rather than the use of inflammatory language or personal attacks.
Bawumia’s remarks come at a time when political tensions in the country are rising, and the rhetoric from both sides has become increasingly charged. However, Bawumia’s appeal for a more respectful tone in the political arena reflects his desire for a more issue-driven campaign, one that allows voters to make informed decisions based on the policies being presented by the two major political parties.
Meanwhile, the NDC has not officially responded to Bawumia’s criticisms, but Mahama’s camp has defended his earlier comments, stating that they were a reflection of his frustration with the current government’s handling of national issues. Mahama’s supporters argue that the former president was simply calling out the lack of accountability from certain quarters, particularly religious leaders and CSOs, who they believe should be more vocal in their critique of the ruling NPP.
As the political landscape continues to evolve ahead of the December elections, it remains to be seen whether the call for more respectful political discourse will resonate with voters. What is clear, however, is that Dr. Bawumia is positioning himself as a candidate who values civility and ideas over insults, a message he hopes will appeal to the electorate.
In conclusion, Dr. Bawumia’s criticism of Mahama’s recent remarks highlights the importance of maintaining a level of decorum in political discourse, especially as Ghana prepares for a crucial election. His call for a campaign focused on ideas rather than personal attacks could set the tone for the months leading up to the December polls, as both candidates seek to win over voters with their respective visions for the country’s future.
