New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has taken a swipe at former President John Mahama, criticising him for making what he describes as “indecent” remarks in recent public statements.
Dr. Bawumia’s comments came in response to Mahama’s claims that some civil society organisations (CSOs) and religious leaders are hypocrites for not criticising the current NPP government.
Speaking during a campaign stop in the Amasaman constituency on Monday, Dr. Bawumia expressed his disappointment in the former president’s approach, emphasising the need for civility in political discourse.
He argued that as a former head of state, Mahama should set a higher standard of communication, especially in the lead-up to the 2024 elections.
“You all know that the December polls are between myself and former President Mahama,” Bawumia remarked.
“But we all know, and he also knows, that he will fail, so he gets peeved at the least thing. I have heard that today he insulted pastors, chiefs, imams, and CSOs, saying they are all hypocrites. Have you heard this before?”
He further questioned whether such statements were appropriate for a former president, referring to previous instances where Mahama criticised the Electoral Commission (EC) and labelled the NPP government as “foolish.”
“Is that how a former president should speak?” Bawumia asked. “We must have some standards of decency in the language we use as politicians. This election is about ideas, not insults.”
Dr. Bawumia’s remarks reflect his call for a more respectful and idea-focused political environment. He urged all political leaders and their supporters to engage in constructive discussions rather than resorting to personal attacks, especially as the country gears up for the December elections.