The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has openly challenged former President John Dramani Mahama, the Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), to a live presidential debate.

Dr. Bawumia's call for a debate was done in a spirited address to thousands of supporters in Bunkpurugu, North East Region,

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

However, he expressed skepticism about the possibility of such a debate taking place, accusing Mahama of avoiding the challenge.

"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 an opposition leader who doesn't want to debate. But he knows I will expose the emptiness of his policies."

Dr. Bawumia also criticized Mahama's proposed "24-hour economy" plan, claiming that the former President and his team are unable to articulate and defend the details of this policy.

"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," Bawumia said, mocking the feasibility of Mahama's proposals.

Emphasizing the importance of public discourse and transparency in the democratic process, Dr. Bawumia stated, "When we meet mano a mano, 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."