PUWU General Secretary Defends ECG Amidst Privatization Debate
The General Secretary of the Public Utilities Workers Union (PUWU), Timothy Nyame, has defended the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), dismissing claims that the company is weak or failing. His remarks come amid increasing concerns about ECG’s performance, especially after the government set up a technical committee to review its operations and consider privatization.
Speaking on The Pulse on JoyNews on April 2, Nyame acknowledged ECG’s difficulties but argued that these challenges are not unique to the company. He pointed out that many public institutions in Ghana face similar struggles, emphasizing that ECG’s issues should not be misinterpreted as signs of failure. He expressed optimism that with the right support, ECG could overcome its current challenges.
On the same day, the technical committee submitted its report to the Energy Minister, recommending either full or partial privatization of ECG. This recommendation has sparked public debate. Some argue that privatization could improve efficiency, while others fear it may negatively impact electricity affordability and accessibility.
ECG, responsible for power distribution across Ghana, has struggled with several issues, including frequent power outages, revenue mismanagement, increasing debts, and allegations of corruption. A significant scandal involved the loss of over 1,000 containers at the Tema Port, prompting calls for accountability.
In February 2024, an audit by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) uncovered a GH¢5.3 billion revenue discrepancy, revealing that ECG had been under-declaring revenues to the regulator. Political interference and inefficiencies in management have further worsened the company’s reputation.
Despite these concerns, Nyame urged the government to take a holistic approach when considering privatization. He warned against rushing into a decision that may not resolve the core problems affecting ECG. While privatization might seem like a solution, he believes that addressing mismanagement, corruption, and inefficiencies within the organization could lead to more sustainable improvements.
The conversation surrounding ECG’s future remains contentious. While some stakeholders advocate for privatization as a means to enhance service delivery, others worry about potential negative consequences for consumers. As discussions continue, the government faces pressure to implement reforms that will ensure reliable and affordable electricity for Ghanaians.
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