Coordinator of Third World Network-Africa, Dr. Yao Graham, has strongly voiced his opposition to the privatization of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), which adds to the growing calls by well-meaning Ghanaians who have opposed the controversial move.
The Public Utility Workers’ Union (PUWU), which has long opposed the privatization of ECG, recently reaffirmed its stance, warning that such a move could jeopardize livelihoods and fail to address Ghana’s energy challenges.
PUWU emphasized the urgent need for sustainable solutions through dialogue and internal reforms rather than privatization, which they believe poses more risks than benefits.
The Minority in Parliament has also raised concerns about the inconsistencies of certain officials, particularly Energy Minister-Designate John Jinapor, who they claim previously opposed private sector involvement in ECG but now appears to have shifted his position.
Critics of the idea noted the fractured trust in leadership when it comes to handling Ghana’s energy sector. Dr. Yao Graham, during an interview on Channel One TV’s The Big Issue, challenged the logic of privatizing ECG and urged decision-makers to address the root causes of the company’s challenges rather than pursuing privatization as a quick fix.
“Given the public’s unhappiness with the police and judiciary, should we privatize it? Purpose and function, as well as the factors driving the problems of the organization, need to be taken into account. We have never been convinced about the justification for ECG privatization,” he argued.
He said “These same politicians and government officials negotiate private contracts which are beneficial to themselves… All the procurement scandals people have spoken about, people [government officials] have been quick to make sure that their private interests are met.”
