Hassan Ayariga demands clarity on District Economy Markets rebranding

Hassan Ayariga, founder of the All People’s Congress (APC), has formally requested the government to provide clear explanations regarding the recent decision to rename “24-Hour Markets” as “District Economy Markets.” This shift, announced by the government on October 5, 2026, has raised concerns within the APC about potential public confusion and the continuity of the administration's flagship 24-Hour Economy policy. Ayariga emphasized that transparency is essential to ensure citizens understand the scope and intent of these infrastructural developments.

The government justified the name change by arguing that the original “24-Hour Markets” label was too narrow, focusing solely on market activities rather than the broader economic impact intended for various districts. The new “District Economy Markets” model is designed to promote modern commercial spaces and local economic development across Ghana. According to the government’s plan, the first phase of this initiative will prioritize the construction of commercial spaces, followed by the integration of essential services to support a round-the-clock economy at the local level.

However, Hassan Ayariga cautioned that altering the terminology without a robust communication strategy could lead to public misconceptions and invite unnecessary criticism. He expressed concern that the new name might detach the projects from the core identity of the 24-Hour Economy initiative, which served as a central pillar of the current administration’s platform. To bridge this gap, the APC leader suggested an alternative name: “24-Hour District Model Markets.” Ayariga believes this title would better preserve the connection to the initial policy goals while acknowledging the expanded developmental objectives of the project.

The APC’s call for clarity underscores the importance of policy consistency and accountability in government communication. By advocating for more descriptive terminology, Ayariga aims to ensure that the public can hold the administration accountable for its promises regarding economic transformation. As the government moves forward with the first phase of the District Economy Markets, the focus remains on whether these structural changes will effectively translate into the promised job creation and local economic stimulation across the country.