John Dramani Mahama, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer for 2024, has attacked President Akufo-Addo’s administration, claiming it is to blame for Ghana’s economic woes.
Speaking on Thursday, December 7, 2023, at the 9th Ghana CEO Network Business Cocktail, Mr. Mahama claimed that the nation was in terrible shape as a result of President Akufo-Addo’s decision to toss out the 40-year National Development Plan, which was created during his administration.
The former president made this statement while outlining how the 40-year National Development Plan would inform the NDC’s 24-hour economy proposal, which he claimed would alter the course of the nation.
“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.
He claims that the initiative is a well-considered policy that will put Ghana back on the road to 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 about the 24-hour policy, 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.
Source: Ghana360news.com
