Speaking at the 9th Ghana CEO Network Business Cocktail on Thursday, December 7, 2023, John Dramani Mahama, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s 2024 flagbearer, took aim at President Akufo-Addo’s administration, claiming that it was causing economic turmoil and leaving Ghana in a dire state.
The former president made these claims while outlining how the NDC’s 24-hour economy proposal, which he claimed stems from the 40-year National Development Plan, would alter the country’s course.
“Indeed, its [24-hour economy] roots emanate from the 40-year National Development Plan the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) put together when I was President. Unfortunately, the present government discarded the 40-year plan and replaced it with a Ghana Beyond Aid plan that has turned Ghana into a beggar nation,” he said.
As per his assessment, the plan is a well-laid out policy that would put Ghana back on track for recovery.
The former president emphasized the 24-hour economy initiative’s importance and its inclusion in the 2020 People’s Manifesto of the NDC.
Mr. Mahama provided additional information regarding the 24-hour strategy, describing its main objective as turning Ghana into an export-driven, self-sufficient economy that runs on a three-shift work schedule.
He emphasized the party’s commitment to its social democratic principles by making it clear that the NDC does not seek to establish a command economy with centralized planning.
“There will be no limit to the sectors the 24-hour economy initiative will target. And the benefits will be enormous. Through the 24-hour economy, we will create new, decent, and well-paying jobs for the youth, reduce unemployment, which is a significant challenge, and improve the living standards of Ghanaians.
“Also, the expanded range of operating or working hours will increase productivity and fully utilise all resources, including infrastructure. The 24-hour economy will provide greater flexibility and convenience for workers and allow citizens to access goods and services anytime,” he said.
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