In a recent turn of events, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has provided a stance on their proposed version of a 24-hour economy that can only be described as pathetic, backward, and dangerously out of touch with the needs of modern Ghana. As the Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) UK, I find it imperative to address the arguments presented by the NDC and contrast them with the visionary leadership of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Vice President of Ghana and the Presidential candidate for the NPP.
The NDC’s view on their ‘so called’ 24-hour economy concept is not only shallow but also reveals a lack of understanding of the dynamics of modern economies. They have reduced the debate to trivial matters, such as the availability of waakye and fufu and selling bush meat at night, completely missing the essence of what a 24-hour economy entails. It’s not merely about nighttime dining options but about creating a robust, flexible, and dynamic economy that operates efficiently round the clock. This approach is about providing opportunities for businesses to thrive, creating jobs, and enhancing the quality of life for all Ghanaians.
Moreover, the NDC’s view regarding the provision of electricity to farmers at night, juxtaposed against their failure to resolve the dumsor crisis in Ghana which cost Ghana billions of dollars and plunged the economy into the abyss is not only indicative of their short-sightedness but also exposes their lack of care and an understanding of what Ghana needs in the midst of a global 4th industrial revolution.
The issue at hand is not just about providing electricity but about leveraging it to boost agricultural productivity, ensure food security, and enhance the income of farmers. It’s a step towards modernising agriculture and making it a 24-hour operation, which is essential for a country where agriculture plays a critical role in the economy.
In stark contrast, Dr. Bawumia’s vision for Ghana is not only progressive but grounded in practicality and a deep understanding of what it takes to propel Ghana into a prosperous future. Dr. Bawumia envisions an economy where businesses, healthcare, transportation, and security services are available at all hours, catering to the needs of the populace and stimulating economic growth. This vision acknowledges the complexities of modern life and the need for Ghana to adopt flexible systems that can compete on a global stage.
Dr. Bawumia’s approach is not just about keeping the lights on; it’s about igniting the potential of every sector of the economy. It’s about ensuring that Ghana is not left behind in the march towards progress and development. The digitalisation initiatives already underway under his leadership are testament to his forward-thinking policies, which are laying the groundwork for a more inclusive, efficient, and dynamic economy.
The choice facing Ghanaians is clear. We can either regress under the NDC, whose arguments and vision for the country are as outdated as they are impractical, or we can move forward with Dr. Bawumia and the NPP, who have a clear, practical, and ambitious plan for transforming Ghana into a propsperous and sophisticated economy. This is not just about economic growth; it’s about creating a Ghana where everyone has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of the time of day. Let us choose progress. Let us choose Dr. Bawumia and the NPP for a brighter, more prosperous Ghana.
Long live Ghana
Long live the NPP
Long live the NPP UK
Kwaku Bimpeh
NPP UK Director of Communication