Flagbearer of the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has reacted to recent comments made by his political rival, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Mr. Mahama emphasised that Ghana requires experienced leadership to navigate its challenges, not a leader lacking in presidential experience.

During a recent media engagement, Dr. Bawumia pointed out that he had never served as President, unlike Mr. Mahama, suggesting that voters should consider him for a fresh approach.

In response, Mr. Mahama, speaking at a community event as part of his Greater Accra regional campaign, dismissed Dr. Bawumia’s remarks and accused the NPP of trying to divert attention from the NDC’s recently launched manifesto.

Mr. Mahama criticised Dr. Bawumia’s statements during his media interactions, calling them a “failed attempt” to distract Ghanaians from the NDC’s policy agenda.

“Our youth do not have the luxury of time,” Mr. Mahama said, stressing the need for seasoned leadership. “Because our youth are the future and they are also present.

“They don’t have the luxury of trial and error—this one will come and try, dump us in the ditch, and the driver’s mate will come and take it and try again, and crash us even further into the ditch.”

Highlighting his own experience, Mr. Mahama continued: “We need experience, we need someone who has done it before. We need a licensed driver to take over the vehicle and move the vehicle to where God has destined.”