February 11, 2025

Mahama Pledges to Implement 24-Hour Economy If Elected President

0
_johnmahama

John Dramani Mahama, the presidential candidate of Ghana’s National Democratic Congress (NDC), has outlined plans to introduce a 24-hour economy if he is re-elected in the upcoming election. While he acknowledges that it may not be possible to fully implement the policy within one term, Mahama is committed to starting the process and laying the foundations for this economic shift.

In a recent interview with BBC Africa on December 4, 2024, Mahama explained that the 24-hour economy is a long-term strategy aimed at revitalizing the nation’s economic prospects. He clarified that although implementing the entire 24-hour economy model within a four-year term might not be feasible, his administration would initiate the transition. “We will start at least,” Mahama asserted when asked if the policy could be realized in the first term. He emphasized that the 24-hour economy should not be perceived as an immediate change, but as a gradual, phased process to strengthen the country’s economic infrastructure.

“The 24-hour economy is not an event; it is a process. You can’t put a cost on it immediately,” Mahama said. He further explained that even as efforts to stabilize the country’s macroeconomic environment continue, such as reducing inflation and interest rates, the 24-hour economy initiative would still move forward. He urged Ghanaians not to expect instant results but to understand that the shift to a 24-hour economy would take time.

One of the key benefits Mahama sees in the policy is its potential to create jobs, particularly in industries that would operate in multiple shifts. “If you incentivize businesses to run for eight hours, they can’t operate with the same number of people; they will need to hire more workers,” he explained. By encouraging businesses to extend their operating hours, Mahama believes this would create a significant number of jobs, which is essential for improving Ghana’s employment landscape. He also pointed out that with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Trade Liberalization Scheme, there are increased opportunities for trade that would further support Ghana’s economy.

Mahama also addressed the issue of the upcoming elections, stressing that he would only accept the results if the process is fair and transparent. He was questioned about the possibility of accepting the election outcome in light of recent political tensions. His response reflected deep concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. “If on election day there is widespread ballot snatching, violence, intimidation by the military, and thugs rampaging, you want me to accept that result?” Mahama stated. He made it clear that his acceptance of the election results would depend on the transparency and fairness of the process.

With Ghana’s presidential and parliamentary elections scheduled for December 7, Mahama’s comments come at a critical time, as the two major political parties—the NDC and the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP)—intensify their campaigns in the final days before the polls. Mahama’s remarks underscore the importance of free and fair elections, as well as his desire to ensure that the voice of the people is truly heard in the democratic process.

The proposal for a 24-hour economy is a cornerstone of Mahama’s economic agenda. He believes this policy is essential for addressing Ghana’s current economic difficulties and for creating a sustainable path toward growth. Mahama’s administration would aim to encourage businesses to operate longer hours, which would not only create jobs but also increase the productivity and competitiveness of Ghana’s industries. This initiative is part of a broader vision to foster an environment where businesses can thrive, and the economy can recover from the challenges it faces.

For Mahama, staying relevant in the political and economic landscape is one of his greatest achievements. As he looks to the future, the implementation of a 24-hour economy represents a crucial step toward reshaping Ghana’s economic future and improving the livelihoods of its people. His leadership, he believes, would help address the pressing challenges facing the country, and the 24-hour economy is a key pillar of this vision for a better Ghana.

About The Author

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *