NDC struggling to fulfill promises; 24-hour economy now 24-hour demolitions – Bawumia

New Patriotic Party (NPP) leader Dr Mahamudu Bawumia criticized the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) for not fulfilling key campaign promises, focusing on the 24-Hour Economy initiative and its impact on job creation. Speaking at the NPP's National Delegates Conference in Kumasi on October 3, Bawumia highlighted that several commitments made by the NDC ahead of the 2024 general election had yet to yield the expected benefits for citizens.

He specifically targeted the 24-Hour Economy plan, which envisioned creating employment for young people through a three-shift work system. "The NDC promised Ghanaians and the youth a flagship 24-Hour Economy with one job, three shifts, and three people," Bawumia stated. He then used the recent demolition of structures at La Beach to mock the government's employment pledges.

Bawumia accused the NDC of transforming the promised 24-hour economy jobs into 24-hour demolitions of buildings for "so-called 24-Hour markets." He argued that young graduates, artisans, and supporters who backed the NDC were still awaiting the promised job opportunities. The NPP leader also criticized the government over the La Beach demolition exercise, stating that it affected traders, artisans, and small business owners whose livelihoods were linked to the area.

Bawumia further questioned the government's progress on its Women's Development Bank proposal and its pledge to reduce electricity tariffs. Despite a decline in inflation, he noted that electricity, transport, and rent costs continued to burden households and businesses. Reflecting on the NPP's opposition period, Bawumia acknowledged the need for the party to learn from its shortcomings, stating that it had used the time to listen to Ghanaians and review its performance.

He added that the NPP was currently developing its governance program ahead of the 2028 general election.