The Minority in Parliament has criticised the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s flagship 24-Hour Economy policy, describing it as a “confusing mix of policy ideas” with no clear implementation framework.
Addressing 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy presented by Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson in Parliament on Thursday, November 13, 2025, Former Finance Minister and Member of Parliament for Karaga, Dr Mohammed Amin Adam on behalf of the Caucus, accused the government of failing to deliver on its promise of massive job creation through the initiative.
“The government promised lots of jobs when it came to power, but unfortunately, those promises have not materialised,” the former minister stated during a media engagement on Friday.
He specifically referenced the NDC’s campaign pledge of creating a shift system under the 24-Hour Economy, where one job would be shared among three people working in rotation — a model dubbed “1-3-3”.
“Remember their promise on the 24-Hour Economy; they indicated that with one job, they will have three people, who run on three shifts doing it: 1-3-3. But what has happened so far?” Dr Amin Adam questioned.
He lamented that instead of delivering on this vision, the policy remains vague and unimplemented, leaving Ghanaian youth unemployed and businesses struggling.
“Today, the 24-Hour Economy is a confusing mix of policy ideas with no implementation arrangement. The same youth who were told that they will have shifts to work once this government comes to power are roaming the streets, while farmers and traders complain of poor sales and demand,” he added.
The 24-Hour Economy was a cornerstone of the NDC’s 2024 election campaign, promoted as a strategy to boost productivity, create jobs, and stimulate economic activity by encouraging businesses to operate around the clock.
However, nearly a year into the Mahama administration, critics, including members of the Minority in Parliament, argue that the policy lacks a concrete roadmap, regulatory support, and incentives for private sector participation.
Dr Amin Adam’s remarks echo growing concerns from business groups and labour unions, who have called for clearer guidelines, tax relief, and infrastructure support to enable extended operating hours, particularly in manufacturing, agro-processing, and retail sectors.
The Finance Minister, in his budget presentation, reiterated the government’s commitment to the 24-Hour Economy, citing ongoing consultations and pilot programmes in selected districts. However, he provided no specific timelines or measurable targets for job creation under the initiative.
As the 2026 budget heads to parliamentary debate, the Minority has vowed to push for greater accountability on the policy’s progress, warning that unfulfilled promises risk eroding public trust in the government’s economic agenda.
The NDC administration has yet to issue an official response to Dr Amin Adam’s criticism.