The Founder and Leader of the All People’s Congress (APC), Hassan Ayariga, has called on the Ghanaian government to clarify its policy direction regarding the 24-hour Economy initiative. This follows a change in terminology from “24-hour Markets” to “District Model Markets.” Ayariga stated that the 24-hour Market concept had become closely associated with the government’s flagship 24-hour Economy policy, providing it with a visible and practical identity. He emphasized that the concept allowed selected markets and commercial centres to operate beyond conventional working hours, benefiting businesses, traders, workers, and consumers.
Ayariga expressed concerns that removing the “24 Hour” identity without sufficient explanation could create the perception that the original concept was being abandoned or was no longer central to the government’s 24-hour Economy agenda. He warned that this change could provide political opponents and critics with grounds to argue that a major component of the flagship policy had not worked as intended. Ayariga suggested that if the government intends to combine the 24-hour Economy concept with a broader district market development programme, it could consider the name “24 Hour District Model Markets.” This, he believes, would preserve the identity of the 24-hour Economy policy while accommodating the broader objective.
The APC leader stressed that his concerns were not motivated by political point-scoring but by the need for policy consistency, accountability, and clear communication. He 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?” Ayariga emphasized that the Ghanaian people deserve clarity on this matter. His statement was issued on Monday, October 5, 2026.
The government has announced plans to review and remodel the flagship 24-hour market initiative, with the proposed District Model Markets expected to reflect the revised scope of the programme. Hassan Ayariga is now calling for clarification on whether the change in terminology represents a rebranding of the initiative or a substantive change in policy direction. This comes as the government seeks to make adjustments to its economic policies.
According to Ayariga, the 24-hour Market concept had given the 24-hour Economy programme a visible and practical identity. He stated that any decision to change the name or identity of the initiative must be properly explained to the public. Ayariga proposed that if the government intends to broaden the initiative by developing modern model markets across the districts, then that objective should be clearly communicated.
The government’s review and remodeling of the 24-hour market initiative aim to reflect the revised scope of the programme. The proposed District Model Markets are expected to be part of this revised programme. Hassan Ayariga's call for clarity comes at a time when the government is making adjustments to its economic policies. The APC leader's concerns highlight the need for transparent communication regarding policy changes.
Hassan Ayariga's suggestion to consider the name “24 Hour District Model Markets” aims to preserve the identity of the 24-hour Economy policy. He emphasized the importance of policy consistency, accountability, and clear communication. The government has not yet responded to Ayariga's concerns, but it is expected to provide clarity on its policy direction regarding the 24-hour Economy initiative.
Key points
- Hassan Ayariga questions government's policy direction on 24-hour Economy
- Change in terminology from "24-hour Markets" to "District Model Markets" sparks concerns
- Ayariga suggests "24 Hour District Model Markets" to preserve policy identity
