Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Champions Humanitarian Support in Weija as Political Debate Heightens Over NDC's 24-Hour Economy Policy

NPP Flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has intensified his public outreach with a significant GH¢50,000 donation to the St. Jude Catholic Church in Weija, Greater Accra Region. This philanthropic engagement occurs as prominent NPP figures, including former Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, assert that Bawumia is destined for the presidency regardless of opposition. While the NPP focuses on grassroots humanitarianism and agricultural sustainability—prioritizing fair prices and lower costs for farmers—the political landscape is simultaneously dominated by an intensifying debate over the incumbent National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration's signature 24-Hour Economy policy. During his visit to Weija, Dr. Bawumia commissioned a new, disability-friendly eight-seater washroom facility at the St. Jude Catholic Church, a project he had previously supported. His visit also included an emotional engagement at the Weija Leprosarium, where he interacted with patients and vowed continued assistance for vulnerable populations. Rev. Fr. Andrew Campbell commended the NPP leader for his genuine empathy and shared commitment to humanitarian efforts, noting that Bawumia’s support has been instrumental in the church's ongoing operations and construction. On the national policy front, the NDC government is defending its proposed 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development Programme. Dr. Stephen Issaka of the NDC Communication Team recently outlined the "1:3:3 crescendo" shift system, describing it as a fundamental but gradual transformation of the Ghanaian economy. Proponents argue this initiative will create jobs and boost exports by extending productivity beyond traditional hours. However, the policy has met sharp resistance from critics who question its logic and implementation. Former MP Amidu Issahaku Chinnia criticized the focus on 24-hour market projects, suggesting that the government should instead prioritize industrial initiatives like the One District, One Factory (1D1F) program. Chinnia argued that large physical markets are becoming less relevant in an era of growing online commerce. Further skepticism was voiced by critics like Kwesi Yankah, who labeled the initiative a potential "nightmare" or "tragedy," citing reports of market demolitions and the loss of livelihoods for traders. As the 2025 political cycle progresses, the clash between the NPP's emphasis on direct humanitarian support and the NDC's structural economic reforms continues to define the national discourse. While Dr. Amin Adam maintains that the NDC fails to understand rural needs, the government remains committed to its 24-hour vision, leaving the electorate to weigh the tangible benefits of local philanthropy against the ambitious promises of large-scale economic restructuring.