Vice Chairperson of Parliament’s Finance Committee, Richard Acheampong, has dismissed claims by the Minority that the government’s proposed 24-Hour Economy Secretariat lacks research and data, insisting that a policy framework has already been developed to guide implementation.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Top Story on Thursday, Acheampong urged critics to obtain and review the official policy document instead of making what he described as unfounded allegations.
“We’ve presented a policy document, so if you are saying there is no research done, how can we develop the policy document if there is no research and data?” he questioned.
His remarks come after the Minority opposed the bill seeking to establish a Secretariat to coordinate the NDC’s flagship 24-hour economy programme.
Deputy Ranking Member on Parliament’s Finance Committee, Dr. Stephen Amoah, had argued that the framework contains major gaps and warned against creating a new authority without proper groundwork.
Acheampong, however, maintained that the policy is already undergoing improvements and amendments, stressing that Parliament remains open to constructive input.
“If you have issues with the bill, come and suggest those amendments so that we take everything on board. As I speak, we are doing the amendment,” he said.
When pressed by the interviewer to outline what specific research informed the policy direction, Acheampong insisted that the details are contained in the public document.
“So you should get a copy of the policy document. You get to understand everything in there,” he stated.
The host noted that not every Ghanaian would have access to the document and asked Acheampong to briefly explain the key findings.
In response, Acheampong reiterated that the policy is publicly available and invited broader engagement rather than political contestation.
“It’s a public document. Anybody at all can apply for it,” he said, adding that he would be willing to dedicate a separate session to walk the public through the framework.
“We can have a personal studio so that I’ll run the public through the policy document so that they get a better appreciation,” he suggested.
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