26/8/2024
Ghana’s premier public policy think-tank the Institute of Economic Affairs has inaugurated a nine-member committee to organize debates for flagbearers and running mates of the various political parties ahead of this year’s election.
Presidential debates which constitute an integral part of democracy are held to provide a unique platform for presidential contenders to outline their policies and vision of governance for the country, to inform and empower citizens to make informed decisions, to promote issue-based campaigns devoid of personal attacks and rancour and finally to promote and sustain peace before, during and after the electioneering period.
The Institute of Economic Affairs birthed in 1989 as Ghana’s first independent public policy think tank is entrusted with promoting good governance, democracy and sustainable economic development.
As part of its commitment to deepen, consolidate multiparty deimocracy and promote issue-based elections, the body organised the first-ever presidential debate in 2000 moderated by Professor Audrey Gadzekpo and Kwaku Sakyi Addo.
It was attended by all presidential aspirants except late Professor John Evans Atta Mills of the National Democratic Congress.
His absence cost him the election and his main challenger
John Kufuor of the New Patriotic Party went on to win.
The second edition held four years later was moderated by Komla Dumor of blessed memory.
Sadly, the candidate for the then ruling party John Kufuor declined to participate at the last minute, although he had given an earlier commitment to take part.
As incumbent, he won the fiercely-contested election.
In 2008, the presidential debate was held twice in Accra and Tamale.
As incumbent, he won the fiercely-contested election.
In 2008, the presidential debate was held twice in Accra and Tamale.
Renowned broadcaster late Cyril Acolatse and former Director-General of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation,
Professor Kwame Karikari moderated the first one held in the capital.
Seasoned journalist Israel Laryea and former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Professor Ivan Addae-Mensah moderated the Tamale event.