As we march toward the 2024 elections, it is essential to dissect policy proposals with a sharp, informed perspective.

The recent comments by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Vice President and New Patriotic Party's (NPP) flagbearer, critiquing the 24-hour economy vision proposed by John Mahama, the leader of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), warrant a response that is not only politically astute but educational.

Firstly, it is crucial to clarify the essence of a "24-hour economy." This concept extends beyond the simplistic enumeration of sectors that operate round-the-clock. It encapsulates a comprehensive economic strategy that fosters job creation, economic dynamism, and inclusive growth by incentivizing a wide spectrum of industries to operate continuously.

Dr. Bawumia's portrayal of the 24-hour economy as merely a list of currently operational sectors is a gross simplification and hollow.

Hospitals, digital financial services, and food establishments like chop bars offering 24-hour services do not, on their own, constitute a 24-hour economy.

Rather, these are services that meet essential, immediate needs, regardless of the hour. The concept proposed by Mr. Mahama is a far-reaching one, aimed at creating systemic changes that encourage a wide array of businesses to operate in multiple shifts, thereby maximizing resource use and job opportunities.

The Vice President’s critique seems to overlook the potential of a fully realized 24-hour economy policy, which could stimulate economic activity and provide the framework for a more resilient and diversified economy.

A policy that encourages businesses to operate 24/7 would potentially boost productivity and employment, foster a more vibrant urban life, and make Ghanaian cities more competitive on a global scale.

Furthermore, the Vice President's hasty dismissal of the 24-hour economy vision speaks to a concerning trend in political discourse — the tendency to politicize and undermine potentially transformative ideas without a thorough examination of their merits or the policy framework underpinning them.

It is vital for leaders, especially those aspiring to the highest office, to demonstrate a nuanced understanding of economic policies and engage in constructive debate over their implementation.

A true 24-hour economy is not a spontaneous occurrence but the result of deliberate policy decisions that incentivize and support businesses to extend their operations. These policies could include tax breaks, safety and security measures, infrastructural support, and flexible labor regulations that collectively create an environment conducive to round-the-clock operations. It also requires cultural shifts, a robust infrastructure that supports night-time operations, and a regulatory framework that safeguards workers' rights and well-being.

In light of these considerations, one must question the readiness of leadership that hastily discredits a policy without offering a detailed critique or alternative solutions. The people of Ghana deserve a discourse that is constructive, foresightful, and geared towards the economic prosperity of the nation. As such, while Dr. Bawumia's comments may represent a politically charged perspective, the NDC’s response should aim to educate both the Vice President and the public on the intricacies of the 24-hour economy and its potential to transform Ghana into a bustling, job-creating, and inclusive economy that operates efficiently, day and night.

Let us elevate the conversation beyond political point-scoring to a dialogue that enlightens and paves the way for economic innovation and progress for all Ghanaians.

In the spirit of progressive dialogue and nation-building, it is imperative to acknowledge and commend former President John Dramani Mahama for putting forth the visionary policy of a 24-hour economy.

This idea, which seeks to invigorate the Ghanaian economy through round-the-clock operations, is not just a testament to innovative thinking but also to an empathetic understanding of the needs of our nation’s youth, entrepreneurs, and business leaders.

The introduction of such a policy could mark the beginning of a transformative era in Ghana's economic landscape.

By creating a structure that supports businesses to operate continuously, we can anticipate a surge in job opportunities that will significantly reduce unemployment, especially among the youth who are the backbone and future of our nation.

It is a policy that embraces the aspirations of our energetic and ambitious population and aligns with the global trends of economic development.

We call upon the people of Ghana, particularly the youth, entrepreneurs, and business leaders, to rally behind this vision.

The promise of a 24-hour economy is not just the promise of jobs; it is the promise of a vibrant, robust, and dynamic Ghana where businesses thrive, innovation is constant, and opportunities are plentiful.

It is a promise of a future where the nocturnal silence of closed shops is replaced by the hum of productivity, and the stars witness the bustling activity of a nation on the move.

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The writer is a Business Operations Analyst and MPhil Operations Management student at UGBS with a research interest in the petroleum downstream sector of Ghana.