There is a growing sense of tension spreading throughout the country as members of the Public Utility Workers Union (PUWU) intensify their opposition to the government’s plans to introduce private sector involvement in the operations of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo).
PUWU members have raised red flags at all 92 district offices and 14 regional administrative centers nationwide as a bold and symbolic protest against the proposed move. This action comes in response to Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson’s confirmation that Cabinet has approved the controversial decision.
At the headquarters of the Volta River Authority (VRA) and ECG, located at Electro Volta House in Accra, signs of agitation are evident. Correspondent James Avedzi from JoyNews reported that red cloths have been draped around signposts and banners displayed at the main entrance.
Security personnel on duty confirmed the early stages of protest, with expectations of more visible demonstrations including workers wearing red armbands set to escalate from Monday, April 28.
Deputy General Secretary of PUWU, Reverend Enoch Paul Hayes, expressed discontent with the government’s approach, particularly regarding the lack of transparency and stakeholder engagement in the privatization process. He highlighted the absence of consultations with key stakeholders such as the union and broader labor front, accusing the Ministry of Energy of operating “behind closed doors.”
Rev. Hayes emphasized the importance of open dialogue and transparency in such significant decisions, stating, “We’re sounding a caution. This is the hoisting of the red flag, and we are saying that they should tread very cautiously because why are we in a haste? What is the hurry for? Why are we trying to do things under the carpet? If we really want to do something better for the country, and then for the energy sector, everything should be open, everything should be clear.”
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