Dr. Nii Darko Asante, a former Executive Secretary of the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), is calling on both the commission and the government to hold the board and management of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) accountable for the company’s current challenges.
He believes that addressing internal management issues is crucial before considering any drastic measures like privatization.
This call to action follows the PURC’s recent proposal suggesting that the government explore partial or full privatization of ECG as a strategy to restructure the company and restore its financial health.
The proposal has sparked debate, with some stakeholders viewing privatization as a necessary step to improve efficiency, while others are concerned about potential implications for public control and service delivery.
Dr. Asante argues that the focus should first be on scrutinizing the performance of the ECG’s leadership.
According to him, the board and management must be held responsible for the company’s financial woes and operational inefficiencies.
He emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability in how the company has been run, suggesting that internal reforms and leadership changes could potentially lead to improvements without the need for privatization.
He also highlights that while privatization can bring in much-needed capital and technical expertise, it is not a guaranteed solution.
Without addressing underlying management issues, there is a risk that the same problems could persist even under private ownership.
Dr. Asante is urging the government to consider a thorough review of the company’s governance and operational practices as a first step in any restructuring process.
The situation with ECG has far-reaching implications, as the company plays a crucial role in Ghana’s energy sector.
The debate over its future, whether through privatization or internal reforms, will significantly impact the country’s efforts to ensure reliable and affordable electricity for its citizens.
As discussions continue, stakeholders are weighing the best path forward to secure the long-term sustainability and efficiency of the ECG.
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Story by: Osei Akoto (Teacher Kojo) #Ahotoronline.com
