In a recent parliamentary session, Samuel Abu Jinapor, the Member of Parliament for Damongo, voiced strong criticism against President John Dramani Mahama’s government, particularly regarding its much-publicized 24-hour economy initiative.
Addressing lawmakers on February 5, 2026, Jinapor expressed disappointment that the policy, which was heralded by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as a solution for youth unemployment, has yet to be effectively implemented nearly a year after the administration took office.
The former Minister for Lands and Natural Resources characterized the government’s approach as misleading, arguing that the only entity truly embodying the proposed “one job, three shifts” model is the Parliament itself. He pointed out that the Speaker’s office is the sole example of this system currently in operation in Ghana.
“The only job in Ghana operating under the 1-3-3 framework is the office of the Speaker, with Alban Bagbin covering one shift, while the First Deputy Speaker, Bernard Ahiafor, and the Second Deputy Speaker, Andrew Asiamah, take the subsequent shifts,” Jinapor stated. “However, even this setup does not reflect a true 24-hour operation.”
Jinapor accused the NDC of failing to deliver on its promises, asserting that the administration’s handling of the 24-hour economy has created false hopes among the country’s unemployed youth. He called it a mere distraction rather than a genuine effort to provide jobs.
“This is another gimmick, Mr. Speaker. It serves only to buy time and raise expectations that have yet to be met,” he declared. “You pledged jobs and a vibrant economy. Eleven months later, it is time for accountability.”
As the political discourse continues, Jinapor’s remarks underline the growing frustrations surrounding employment opportunities in Ghana and the challenges facing the current administration.
