The flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama has emphasized that he does not plan to immediately set a budget for the initiative, noting that key factors must be thoroughly evaluated before any financial commitments are made.

He explained that the initiative is not a one-day project, but a long-term endeavor that will require gradual processes to achieve.In an interview with BBC Africa on Wednesday, December 4, Mahama explained that he aims to ensure the strengthen the micro economy, reduce inflation rates as well as interest rates."Erm, you can't put a cost on it immediately. 24-hour economy is not an event, it's a process. And so even while we are stabilizing the macroeconomic environment and bringing inflation down, bringing interest rates down, we will be implementing the 24-hour economy. You are thinking about it as if we'll wake up overnight as soon as I'm sworn in and 24-hour economy is operational.

" First, we're going to stop mining in forest reserves. Then secondly, stop mining on the waterbodies. We're going to hold the owners of the concession to account.Mahama’s commitment to a 24-hour economy is part of his 2024 presidential election agenda. He believes this policy will significantly contribute to economic expansion and job creation, especially for the youth.

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Mahama’s economic policy proposal has faced criticism, including from Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

During his Northern Region tour, Dr. Bawumia dismissed the idea of implementing a 24-hour economy, stating that it cannot be achieved without a thorough understanding of the implications and requirements.

He argued that many businesses already operate around the clock based on market demand and opportunities.

“I hear John Mahama has a new idea, and he wants to run a 24-hour economy. I say, where did he get this idea from? It is not a bright idea! A 24-hour economy cannot be legislated by the government. Today, there are many businesses that are already working for 24 hours. Hospitals are open for 24 hours. You can buy electricity for 24 hours. Because of digitalization, you can transfer money for 24 hours. There are many chop bars and restaurants that are open for 24 hours,” said Dr. Bawumia.