The Presidential Candidate of the All People’s Congress (APC), Hassan Ayariga, alleged during the launch of his manifesto on Sunday night that he introduced the concept of a 24-hour economy in 2016 and accused former President John Mahama and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) of stealing the idea.
The event, held at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) Auditorium, showcased Ayariga’s vision for Ghana under the theme “Transforming Ghana and Restoring Hope.”
Ayariga is the latest candidate to unveil his manifesto following the Electoral Commission’s clearance of him and 12 others to contest the upcoming elections.
He stated, “The 24 Hour Economy was introduced by Hassan Ayariga in 2016 and 2024. It is not for the NDC,” criticizing the NDC’s claims regarding the initiative.
A 24-hour economy refers to an economic system where businesses, services, and activities operate continuously throughout the day and night. This system encompasses various sectors, including retail, transportation, entertainment, and public services, catering to consumer needs at any time.
In response, Mahama emphasized at the 9th Ghana CEO Network Business Cocktail that the 24-hour economy policy would be a game-changer, pledging that a future NDC administration would actively pursue projects to transition Ghana into a fully-fledged 24-hour economy. He outlined that this vision aligns with the NDC’s goal of creating an industrialized, inclusive, and resilient economy.
The APC also condemned the government’s “Gold for Oil” initiative, labeling it a “scam and fraudulent” policy that enriches a few at the expense of the country. The APC’s vice presidential candidate, Samuel Worlanyo Mensah, noted that the policy has benefited middlemen while the public suffers from high fuel prices. Ayariga promised to cancel the initiative if elected.
When it was his turn to speak, Ayariga pledged that the minimum salary in Ghana would be GH¢5,000 under his administration. He proposed implementing a bi-weekly salary system, where individuals would be paid every two weeks instead of monthly.
Additionally, he committed to increasing the minimum wage from the current GH¢18 to between GH¢150 and GH¢300, asserting that current salaries are inadequate to meet people’s basic needs.