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Upper East Regional Minister Stephen Yakubu is among those expressing opposition to John Dramani Mahama’s proposed 24-hour economic program as the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer for 2024.
This initiative envisions a continuous operation of businesses and services, deviating from the conventional 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday working hours.
Former President Mahama has yet to provide a detailed plan for this proposal, but Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and other members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have already voiced their reservations.
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Minister Stephen Yakubu has joined the critics, expressing concerns that the implementation of a 24-hour economy may impact marital responsibilities, with husbands potentially being unable to fulfill their obligations to their wives. He suggests that the constant work pressure might lead to strained relationships.
Yakubu emphasizes the need for caution, stating, “This 24-hour economy, my brothers, when we work in the farms and we are tired at night, we have to sleep with our wives oh. We must be with our wives. You want them to be farming at night, and then people will come and take our ladies away.” He cautions against the potential consequences of neglecting family responsibilities.
John Mahama, in promoting the 24-hour economic project, assures that participating organizations will receive tax breaks, with the initiative being voluntary.
He emphasizes that no institution will be compelled to adopt the new working hours. The former President outlines the benefits, including tax incentives and increased security, for companies choosing to operate beyond the conventional eight-hour workday.
The policy document for this initiative is reportedly being finalized by a team of experts. Supporters argue that such a program could stimulate economic growth and job creation, citing examples from other nations with successful 24-hour economies.
It’s worth noting that 24-hour economies already exist in certain parts of the world, with businesses like restaurants, convenience stores, and entertainment venues operating continuously in cities such as New York City, Las Vegas, and parts of Los Angeles. Countries like Brazil, Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and Singapore have also implemented variations of a 24-hour economy in specific regions.