Most countries if not all are turning to presidential debates days or weeks ahead of a General election. They claim it is an opportunity to help the citizens get a better picture of the candidates, hence being being able to make the right decision during the voting day.
In these debates, the panelists prepare a list of questions for the candidates, especially about their past leadership experiences and their manifestos, sometimes to a point of crucifying them for the wrongs they have either done or been accused to have committed.
It is voluntary for a candidate to attend a debate, so at times some choose not to attend for either personal reasons, or even claims that the playing ground is not favorable for every player.
On a level ground or not, whether one attends or not, whether you are pushed to the corner by the panelists or you push them, the big question is, can a debate influence a voter’s decision? Does the audience come with an open mind or do they come only support their already preferred candidate?
