“Keep ECG in the hands of Ghanaians” – PUWU reiterates

The Public Utility Workers Union (PUWU) has expressed strong opposition to the potential privatization of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), urging the government to tread cautiously due to various interest groups involved.

Timothy Nyame, General Secretary of PUWU, speaking to ABC News GH on Monday, January 13, 2025, emphasized the union’s belief that the future of ECG would be better secured under Ghanaian management rather than being sold to a private individual motivated solely by profit.

“We believe that when the entity is left in the hands of Ghanaians, we are in a better position to manage it,” Nyame stated, reinforcing the union’s stance against privatization.

This comment follows President John Dramani Mahama’s concerns about the indebtedness of ECG and the suggestion that private sector participation could help reduce losses and enhance revenue mobilization.

The Union in a statement released earlier today indicated that extended its congratulations to President John Mahama on his election victory.

PUWU acknowledged the surge of recommendations from various interest groups proposing solutions to the energy crisis. However, the union criticised the lack of evidence and stakeholder engagement behind many of these proposals, particularly those advocating for privatisation.

The Energy Minister-designate, John Jinapor, during his vetting session before Parliament’s Appointments Committee today clarified that the government is committed to a transparent, competitive process in selecting private partners, ensuring the approach is not solely about profit but about improving service delivery and boosting investor confidence in the energy sector.