The Director General of One World Nexus and former Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG) Parliamentary Candidate for Agona East, Samuel Aryeequaye has urged that the campaign promises made by former President John Mahama and current Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia should be adopted as national policies rather than being used as political tools.
Aryeequaye emphasized that Mahama’s vision for a 24-hour economy and Bawumia’s push for digitalization are essential social intervention policies that should be implemented regardless of political affiliation. He stressed that these policies are interdependent and cannot be successfully executed in isolation.
His remarks came in response to former President John Mahama’s pledge to transform Ghana into a 24-hour economy with continuous business operations to boost production, create jobs, and improve living standards. Mahama made this promise during the virtual launch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) retail campaign in the Western North region on October 7, 2020.
Meanwhile, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has committed to substantial investments in digital infrastructure to drive socio-economic growth and position Ghana as Africa’s digital hub. He emphasized training the youth in digital skills to enable them to seize emerging opportunities and create jobs.
Speaking as a panel guest on the Hot Morning Drive monitored by Puretvonline.com, Aryeequaye commended both policies but argued they should transcend political campaigns and be adopted by any administration elected in the 2024 elections.
“You cannot effectively run a 24-hour economy without reforming the payment system in Ghana,” Aryeequaye explained. “Workers must be paid hourly and weekly. Our current system lacks the discipline needed for a 24-hour economy. The policy is sound, but the understanding and execution by its proponents are flawed.”
On digitalization, Aryeequaye highlighted the discrepancy between urban and rural areas in Ghana. He pointed out that many rural communities, such as Sandema, Fumbese, and Buyaga, suffer from poor internet connectivity, which hinders their ability to benefit from digitalization initiatives.
“Policies must be designed to benefit all Ghanaians, not just those in cities. Digitalization should be inclusive, reaching every corner of the country,” Aryeequaye stated.
He concluded by reiterating that these policies are crucial social interventions requiring national consensus and commitment rather than being politicized.
Aryeequaye’s call for the national adoption of these policies underscores the need for a unified approach to Ghana’s development, ensuring that transformative initiatives benefit all citizens.
Listen to Samuel Aryeequaye’s submissions on 24 hour economy and Bawumia’s digitalization: