Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who is also the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer for the 2024 general elections, has voiced his criticism of the 24-hour economy policy proposed by National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer John Dramani Mahama.
Dr Bawumia asserted that Mr Mahama lacks a comprehensive understanding of the policy he is promising Ghanaians.
During his tour of the Northern Region, Dr Bawumia addressed a gathering of supporters and dismissed the idea of implementing a 24-hour economy, stating that it cannot be achieved without a thorough understanding of the implications and requirements.
Dr Bawumia expressed his skepticism about Mahama’s proposal, emphasising that a 24-hour economy is already a reality for many businesses based on market demand and opportunities.
“I hear John Mahama has a new idea and he wants to run a 24-hour economy. I say where did he get this idea from? It is not a bright idea! A 24-hour economy cannot be legislated by the government,” Dr Bawumia said.
“Today, there are many businesses that are already working for 24 hours. Hospitals are open for 24 hours. You can buy electricity for 24 hours. Because of digitalisation, you can transfer money for 24 hours. There are many chop bars and restaurants that are open for 24 hours.”
Mr. Mahama is promising to establish a 24-hour economy as a key pillar of his campaign for the 2024 presidential election.
The former president argued that such a policy would contribute to economic growth and job creation, especially for the youth.
In a statement commemorating the 2023 International Youth Day, Mr Mahama outlined his administration’s commitment to nurturing a skilled and entrepreneurial youth.
He stated, “A new NDC administration will work urgently to equip our youth with the entrepreneurial knowledge and skills needed for a sustainable future. We will introduce a 24-hour economy with incentives and tax breaks for manufacturers who will run extra shifts to create more room for employment.”
In response, Dr Bawumia rebuffed the idea, asserting that it is not what Ghanaians need at the moment.
Dr Bawumia’s criticism comes in response to Mr Mahama’s recent pledge to implement a 24-hour economy if elected in the 2024 general elections. The NDC flagbearer has argued that such a policy would create jobs, boost economic activity, and improve the livelihoods of Ghanaians.
The debate surrounding the 24-hour economy policy has gained traction in recent weeks, with both major political parties expressing their views on the matter. While the NDC sees it as a progressive step towards economic growth even though Mahama admits its voluntary, the NPP has raised concerns about the feasibility and potential challenges of implementing such a policy.
As the 2024 general elections draw near, the battle of ideas and policy proposals between the NPP and NDC is expected to intensify.
Ghanaians will have the opportunity to evaluate and decide which vision and approach they believe will most effectively drive the country’s development.
The NDC and its flagbearer, have yet to respond to Dr Bawumia’s criticism of their 24-hour economy policy. It remains to be seen how this exchange will shape the political discourse leading up to the general elections.
By Vincent Kubi