The running mate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has condemned the use of insults in politics as campaigns intensify ahead of the crucial December 7, 2024, general elections.

According to her, insults have no place in election campaigns as they do not contribute to the nation’s development.

A video of the former Minister of Education making this admonishment at a campaign rally has gone viral on social media after some members of the public criticized NDC Flagbearer John Mahama for allegedly using insults in his campaign.

John Mahama recently responded to Vice President Bawumia by accusing him of "running away from the economy," citing a well-known line from Bill Clinton's campaign: "It’s about the economy, stupid!"

Mahama's comments followed Bawumia’s presentation of 50 questions on the economy, in response to Mahama’s initial five questions.

Critics argue that, having held the highest office in the country, Mahama should refrain from quoting insults to make his point.

In the video, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang describes anyone who resorts to insults in political campaigning as “not a serious person” and asserts that such individuals should step back.

"We are developing as a nation, and it’s not about insults. If insults could change a country, we wouldn’t have any issues as a nation. There have been many insults, but they have led us nowhere; they didn’t fix potholes, provide water, build additional schools, or construct better airports and harbors. Insults haven’t made life more comfortable for Ghanaians."

She added, "Instead, insults have taught children to use abusive and offensive language, which is harmful. In our current campaign, we have chosen to avoid politics of insults. Anyone who uses insults is not serious and doesn’t want to achieve anything meaningful. Such people should take a back seat.

Any Presidential Candidate who insults is not a serious Candidate and should not be voted.for.

Naana Jane admonishes John Mahama pic.twitter.com/rpZISwmOMU

— krobea Kwabena Asante (@krobea_k_asante) October 31, 2024