Afenyo-Markin mocks Mahama’s 24-Hour economy as political gimmick

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has launched a stinging critique of President John Dramani Mahama’s flagship 24-Hour Economy initiative, dismissing it as a “political gimmick” that has failed to deliver on its promises.

Speaking at a Minority press conference following the President’s national address on his administration’s first 120 days, Afenyo-Markin took aim at the touted programme, accusing the government of relying on symbolic gestures rather than substantive policy outcomes.

“It is rich to hear the President tell us in the SONA that the flagship programme, the 24-Hour Economy – also known as 1,3,3: one job, three shifts – will find space in the 2025 budget,” he said. “But what did we hear? Another ‘matriki wo’!”

He further ridiculed the government’s approach, arguing that the formation of yet another committee to steer the programme only underscores its lack of direction and seriousness.

“Yesterday, as typical of them, they inaugurated another committee responsible for enacting the 24-Hour Economy,” Afenyo-Markin said. “Ei President Mahama… ‘3baa ne s3n?’ 24-Hour Economy atɔ nsuom!”

The Minority Leader’s remarks reflect mounting skepticism from the opposition benches, who contend that despite high-level rhetoric, there is little to show in terms of job creation, improved productivity, or economic stimulation.

The 24-Hour Economy initiative, first introduced by Mahama as a sweeping labour and productivity reform, is intended to extend working hours in key sectors by operating in three shifts, thereby creating employment and attracting investment. The government claims that pilot phases have commenced in select public institutions such as the DVLA, Passport Office, and Ghana Publishing Company.

However, the opposition insists these efforts remain largely symbolic and lack the scale or depth needed to transform the broader economy.