An aspirant for the Upper East Regional Chairman position of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Patrick Ayaba, has raised concerns about the feasibility of the government’s proposed 24-hour economy, particularly its implementation in the Upper East Region.
Speaking on A1 Radio, Mr Ayaba described the policy as lacking clear implementation plans and warned that aspects of it could negatively affect communities.
“What is more worrying is the approach being taken. Markets are being demolished in the name of this 24-hour economy without clear plans or timelines,” he said.
He cited Zebilla as an example, where reports suggest a primary school near the old market could be cleared to make way for a new 24-hour market.
“What is worrying is that they have failed to give timelines on when and where they will build the school to replace it. So where will the children go? Has any alternative school been built? With only a short time left in office, how feasible are these plans?” he asked.
Mr Ayaba argued that several sectors in Ghana already operate on a continuous basis, citing the healthcare sector where services run in shifts throughout the day and night.
“Work does not stop in the morning and resume the next day; services continue around the clock. So why present this as a new policy?” he questioned.
He criticised what he described as a lack of transparency and foresight in the planning of the initiative, warning that poor implementation could lead to public resistance.
“Ghanaians deserve honesty and realistic policies, not slogans,” he said.
Mr Ayaba also contrasted the approach with that of the NPP, saying his party has historically prioritised clear communication and practical development strategies.
“The NPP has always been honest with Ghanaians,” he added.
His comments add to ongoing discussions in the Upper East Region over the practicality of the proposed 24-hour economy and the need for clear timelines and community engagement in policy implementation.
A1 Radio | 101.1 Mhz | Moses Apiah | Bolgatanga
