The Minority in Parliament has strongly criticised the Mahama administration’s flagship 24-hour economy policy, describing it as a propaganda initiative designed to mislead Ghanaians.

The 24-hour economy policy was officially launched by the Mahama government on July 2, with the stated goal of boosting productivity, creating jobs, and stimulating inclusive economic growth by promoting round-the-clock operations in key sectors.

However, the Minority contends that the policy is unfeasible under the current economic climate and lacks a clear implementation framework.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, July 3, Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin argued that the policy lacks substance and was introduced amidst worsening economic conditions.

According to Afenyo-Markin, the policy will not yield any meaningful benefits for the Ghanaian public.

“Their so-called 24-hour economy, on Wednesday, July 2, they launched it without due regard to Parliament. We in the Minority see this as a mere public relations tool to distract from real-time economic hardships and win public goodwill. Because you just increased tariffs, you have introduced a levy which the people called ‘Dumsor’ Levy,” he criticised.

Meanwhile, Special Advisor on the 24-Hour Economy, Goosie Tanoh, says the newly launched policy initiative is open to public scrutiny and evolving input, describing criticism as vital to its success.

He made the point on , at the official launch of the programme.  Mr. Tanoh said the 24-Hour Economy is a dynamic, science-driven initiative rooted in social democratic values, and designed to adapt to the needs of a changing national environment.

“We at the secretariat are confident that we will continue to receive constructive criticism and suggestions for further improvement. Criticism is always welcome. We see the 24-hour programme as a living programme, enriched in science and firm social democratic principles, but flexible enough to respond tactically to a changing environment,” he said.

He noted that the initiative’s long-term success will depend on continuous learning, flexibility, and the willingness to revise strategies based on feedback and evolving circumstances.

“This is the only way a programme can transform our society in the short, medium, and long term,” Mr. Tanoh added.

The 24-Hour Economy initiative seeks to unlock Ghana’s productivity potential by promoting round-the-clock business activity, increasing employment, and ensuring more efficient use of national infrastructure and resources across sectors. The programme is expected to create a robust platform for job creation, industrial expansion, and economic resilience.

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