The President of the Alliance for Civic Action, Mr. Francis Badu Mello, has downplayed the significance of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia's digitalisation agenda, describing it as merely a subset of former President John Mahama’s broader vision of a 24-hour economy.

According to Mr. Mello, digitalisation is an evolving global trend that no single individual can claim as revolutionary or solely their own.

In an interview on the Ghana Yensom Morning Show with Otafrigya Kwesi Appea-Apreku on Accra 100.5 FM, Mr. Mello argued that digitalisation is embedded within the concept of a 24-hour economy, which he believes would naturally foster innovation and economic growth when coupled with job creation.

A 24-hour economy is an economic system where businesses, services, and consumer access to services are available around the clock. 

It can help increase economic output, and employment opportunities, and reduce unemployment, he explained further.

“Digitalisation is not a standalone phenomenon,” he stated, explaining that if employment were widespread and people were actively contributing to the economy, digital solutions would naturally follow.

He further criticised the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) focus on digitalisation, suggesting that a reduction in unemployment—targeting a rate as low as 8%—through a round-the-clock economy would drive digital innovation and productivity.

“Digitalisation is a tool embedded within the 24-hour economy,” Mr. Mello explained. “When people are gainfully employed, they become more innovative and contribute positively to the economy in other areas.”