Nana Akomea, a senior political advisor to the (NPP) flagbearer, , has claimed that former President John Dramani Mahama is afraid to engage in a debate with Bawumia. Akomea's comments were made during an appearance on Neat FM on August 23, 2024, where he addressed the ongoing tensions between the two leading figures in Ghana's 2024 presidential race. According to Akomea, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and its supporters have consistently labeled Bawumia as a liar and accused him of lacking respect. However, he argues that the best way to expose any alleged falsehoods or character flaws would be through a direct debate between the two candidates. He suggested that Mahama's reluctance to engage in such a debate indicates fear. "You have been discussing the person always, and now he is available for you to tell his side of the story, and you claim you won't listen because he is a liar, he doesn't respect, and all that.