THE BIG IEA DEBATE (OCTOBER 29, 2008)

THE first of the 2008 presidential debates instituted by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) to strengthen multiparty democracy takes place today and it is expected to pit the presidential candidates of the four leading political parties against one another in a battle of ideas.
The presidential candidates of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the Convention People’s Party (CPP), the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the People’s National Convention (PNC) will articulate their visions for the country and debate issues that are of interest to Ghanaians.
This initiative by the IEA enforces the belief that politics is a battle of ideas in an organised and violence-free environment, with the objective of giving the electorate clear choices as to whom they prefer to govern them.
It is also often said that politics is a game of numbers and for that reason the competing parties have to come up with policies and vision statements that will appeal to the electorate.
There has always been an emphasis on the need for our politicians to concentrate on issues and avoid personal attacks in their quest to clinch political power.
Although it appears that some of our politicians are beginning to devise campaign strategies with that in mind, there are still concerns over the undue personalisation of political campaigns that sometimes get so reckless, with very wild personal accusations that only serve to muddy the waters.
The initiative by the IEA is, therefore, very welcome, especially because this time round, unlike in 2000 and 2004, all the leading candidates will be involved in the debate.
A trip down memory lane shows that in 2000, the then ruling NDC refused to partake in the debate, while in 2004 the NPP also refused to participate in it.
Now with no incumbent president as a flag bearer, the political parties have agreed to participate in the debate to deepen multiparty democracy.
We have come a long way as an independent and democratic country and no legitimate effort must be spared in our bid to consolidate our democracy and improve on our credentials.
Indeed, the beauty of democracy is the show of tolerance and understanding by all competing parties, no matter how fierce the competition is.
It is the belief of the DAILY GRAPHIC that today’s debate will be another shining showpiece of our political maturity and showcase Ghana as the beacon of hope and pacesetter on the continent.
It is also important for them to bear in mind that the electorate now, more than ever before, are discerning and will be looking out for candidates who demonstrate a firm grasp and understanding of the issues that confront us in the battle to improve the lot of Ghanaians.
At the end of the day, they all need to realise that the ultimate objective is to improve the standard of living of all Ghanaians and kick out poverty.
Thus, irrespective of their political differences, they should be able to engage one another in a fruitful and organised debate and give the electorate the opportunity to assess them.
It is heart-warming that the debate will be live on national television and thus provide millions of Ghanaians the opportunity to assess the candidates.