NDC Rejects Pressure to Rush 24-Hour Economy Policy Despite Campaign Promise

A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Communications Team, Hajia Alimatu Issahak, has defended the government’s position on the implementation of the proposed 24-hour economy policy, insisting that the administration will not rush the initiative merely to fulfil its campaign promise to Ghanaians.

According to her, the government remains committed to delivering on its promises but must ensure that the policy is implemented through a well-planned and sustainable approach rather than being driven by political pressure or public expectations.

Hajia Issahak’s comments come amid growing discussions about the government’s commitment to introducing the 24-hour economy, a flagship policy initiative intended to stimulate economic activities, create employment opportunities and improve productivity across various sectors.

Speaking on the matter, she stressed that the NDC would not allow the urgency surrounding the policy to undermine the careful planning required for its successful implementation.

We are not going to rush implementing the 24-hour economy policy just because we promised Ghanaians, she stated.

She explained that fulfilling campaign promises should not be measured solely by how quickly policies are introduced but also by their effectiveness and the tangible benefits they deliver to citizens.

The 24-hour economy policy is expected to encourage businesses and industries to operate beyond conventional working hours, potentially creating additional employment opportunities for young people and expanding the country’s productive capacity.

Supporters of the initiative believe it could help address unemployment, strengthen local production and increase economic activity by encouraging businesses to operate in multiple shifts.

However, implementing such a policy would require adequate infrastructure, reliable electricity supply, improved security, access to financing and the willingness of businesses to adopt extended working hours.

Hajia Issahak’s remarks suggest that the government is prioritising preparation and sustainability over immediate implementation, although questions may persist about the timeline for translating the campaign pledge into practical results.

For many Ghanaians, particularly the youth seeking employment, the policy represents an important expectation from the governing party. Consequently, the pace of implementation is likely to remain a subject of public scrutiny.

The NDC will therefore face the challenge of balancing its commitment to the 24-hour economy with the need to establish the necessary structures to make it effective.

Ultimately, the success of the initiative will depend not only on the government’s assurances but also on its ability to demonstrate measurable progress, create jobs and deliver lasting economic opportunities to the Ghanaian people.