The flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has ridiculed his counterpart from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, alleging that he cannot articulate his own 24-hour economy policy to Ghanaians.
John Mahama, a former President of Ghana, advocates for a 24-hour economy initiative aimed at enabling businesses to operate in three shifts per day.
His objective is to generate new job opportunities, particularly for young people, combat unemployment, and improve living standards in Ghana through a partnership between government and the private sector.
Mahama’s plan includes implementing new legislation to support businesses adopting a 24/7 operational model, encompassing labor laws and tax incentives.
He proposes favorable tax policies, stimulus packages, and financial aid for sectors like agro-processing and manufacturing.
Furthermore, he stresses the government’s commitment to prioritizing local procurement and implementing measures to ensure the effective functioning of the 24-hour economy.
However, speaking at a Youth Connect event in Bunkpurugu, North East Region, Dr. Bawumia criticized Mahama’s 24-hour economy policy, dismissing it as unsubstantial.
He stated, “He claims to have a 24-hour economy that he cannot explain; it is as empty as an empty barrel. He cannot explain it, nor can any of his associates. They claim we will be exporting lions and elephants, but when we meet face-to-face, we can debate, and the country will see where our policies stand.”
Emphasizing the importance of open policy debates, Dr. Bawumia stated, “That is the direction we should take; we should afford the country an opportunity to listen to us. But if he opts not to debate, I will present my policies to the people of Ghana, and they will make the decision.”