The Flagbearer of the NPP, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia says former President John Mahama may be shying away from a live debate with him because he cannot explain his own policies.

I'm many countries, especially the developed ones, Presidential debates are essential component of the electoral process, as it offers voters the opportunity to listen to the main contenders.

Ahead of December's Presidential elections, a number of Ghanaians have called for a debate between Vice President Bawumia and former President Mahama.

Now. Dr. Bawumia himself has added his voice to the call, and he has challenged Mahama, his main  opponent in the elections, to a live national debate on key issues such as the economy, governance and policies. 

However, Dr. Bawumia added that inspite of his readiness to debate may not happen because  Mahama "is running away" because he cannot explain his own policies during a debate. 

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

"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."

"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." 

"When we meet  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." 

"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." 

"When we meet, 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." 

With many calling for a debate between the two, and Dr. Bawumia throwing a direct challenge, it now remains to be seen whether the  former  President will be prepared.