The policy exists only in the mind of the president—PK Sarpong on Mahama’s 24-hour economy

P.K. Sarpong, an associate of the Institute of Economic Research and Public Policy (IERPP), criticized President John Mahama’s 24-hour economy policy. He called it “idealistic at best” and lacking a solid foundation for execution.

In an interview with Asaase Radio, Sarpong expressed his concerns about Mahama's promise. He stated that implementing a 24-hour economy would be very difficult. He believes it was more of an aspiration than a concrete policy. “The people did not listen to us, but now look at where we are,” he said.

Sarpong described the 24-hour economy promise as an illusion. He accused Mahama and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) of not having a clear plan to make it happen. “There is no policy or blueprint for its implementation,” he noted.

He added that the idea exists only in Mahama's mind. Sarpong emphasized that implementing this policy is challenging under current circumstances. “Ghanaians were clearly deceived,” he concluded.

The 24-hour economy was a key campaign message for the NDC in the 2024 elections. It aimed to create jobs, improve productivity, and stimulate economic growth. However, critics like Sarpong argue it was more political rhetoric than a viable plan.

His comments come amid growing public doubt about such a large-scale initiative. Recent hikes in electricity tariffs and economic challenges could impact infrastructure, labor logistics, and energy supply—essential elements for a 24-hour operational economy.