Mahama dodges IEA presidential debate for sit down interview

Former President Mahama has finally opted out of the proposed IEA Presidential Debate, and has now decided to go for a sit-down interview with the IEA.

The IEA, known for organising past Presidential Debates in the country, announced a few months ago, its intention to organise a Presidential debate for main contenders in this year's election.

While the NPP and its candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia welcomed the IEA proposal, the NDC angrily indicated it would not participate in any IEA debate. Former President Mahama himself, through his public utterances, has since appeared unwilling to take part in a debate.

Sources indicate that the former President and his party made it clear to the IEA in meetings that Mahama was not ready to participate in any debate in which Dr. Bawumia would participate in.

Mahama and his party are said to have given the IEA the ultimatum that the only encounter he will consider will be an question and answer session.

An official flyer from the IEA, has now confirmed former President Mahama will not be involved in the proposed debate. Rather, former President Mahama will be having what has been termed "an evening encounter" with the IEA.

With former President Mahama opting out of a debate, it is unclear whether the IEA will go ahead with its intended debate for the other candidates.

Meanwhile, NPP Candidate, Vice President Bawumia, has renewed his challenge to former President Mahama for a one-on-one debate ahead of December's election.