24-Hour Economy Authority risks role duplication and institutional clashes – Bekwai MP

Raph Poku Adusei, the Member of Parliament for Bekwai in the Ashanti Region has cautioned that the proposed 24-Hour Economy Authority could create conflicts of interest and undermine its intended purpose.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament, Adusei questioned provisions in the bill that allow the use of information “without authorisation,” arguing that such language could enable misuse.

“In my view, I don’t think anybody should have the authorisation to use the information he or she has acquired to the detriment of the authority,” Adusei said.

“The law is there to protect us. The rendition should take away the ‘without authorisation’ clause because it creates an avenue for abuse.”

The legislator warned that the authority might serve no useful purpose if its roles and powers are not clearly defined, potentially leading to internal conflicts and inefficiencies.

The 24-Hour Economy Authority Bill, a flagship policy of the John Mahama administration, aims to transform Ghana’s economy into a 24-hour operational system, coordinating public and private sector initiatives, mobilising investment, and overseeing regulatory and infrastructural support.

The bill has faced severe scrutiny from Minority MPs over potential security, governance, and implementation challenges, with Adusei’s remarks highlighting continuing debates on oversight and accountability.