‘Is 24-hour Market concept still part of 24-hour Economy?’ – Hassan Ayariga asks government

Hassan Ayariga, the founder and leader of the All People's Congress (APC), has questioned the government's policy direction following the alteration in terminology from "24-hour Markets" to "District Model Markets." In a statement released on October 5, Ayariga highlighted that the 24-hour Market concept was closely linked to the government's flagship 24-hour Economy policy, which provided the initiative with a recognisable and practical identity.

He argued that the concept facilitated an understanding of how selected markets and commercial areas could operate outside of regular working hours, thereby generating opportunities for businesses, traders, workers, and consumers.

Ayariga urged the government to provide a clear explanation if it decides to modify the name or identity of the initiative. He maintained that if the government's objective is to expand the initiative by establishing contemporary model markets across various districts, it is crucial to communicate this aim explicitly. Ayariga cautioned that altering the "24 Hour" identity without adequate justification might give the impression that the original concept is being discarded or is no longer central to the government's 24-hour Economy strategy.

Furthermore, he noted that such a change could leave political opponents and critics with ammunition to argue that a key component of the flagship policy has not performed as expected.

The APC leader proposed that if the government intends to integrate the 24-hour Economy concept with a broader district market development programme, it could adopt the name "24 Hour District Model Markets." According to Ayariga, this would retain the identity associated with the 24-hour Economy policy while accommodating the broader goal of developing modern markets across the districts.

He emphasized that his concerns were not politically motivated but were driven by the necessity of policy consistency, accountability, and transparent communication. Ayariga specifically asked, "Is the 24 Hour Market concept still an integral part of the government's 24 Hour Economy policy, or has there been a change in policy direction?" He concluded by stating that the Ghanaian people deserve clarity on this matter.