Privatizing ECG Not the Solution — TUC Warns Government
The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has strongly opposed any attempt to privatize the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), warning that such a move could result in skyrocketing electricity tariffs and the mass dismissal of workers.
According to the TUC, ECG’s financial struggles are largely due to excessive political interference in its operations.
The union pointed to issues such as the distribution of political meters, take-or-pay contracts, frequent changes in managing directors, politically influenced board appointments, and meddling in procurement processes as key factors undermining the utility’s performance.
Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Thursday, April 10, during the annual national executive council meeting of the Public Utility Workers Union (PUWU) of TUC, General Secretary Timothy Nyame stressed that ECG could thrive if these challenges were properly addressed.
TUC further warned that privatizing the company would come at a high cost to both workers and consumers.
“It must be emphasized that ECG remains a critical national asset, essential for driving Ghana’s economic development, ensuring national sovereignty and energy security, and fostering social equity,” the union said.
“While the challenges facing ECG are significant, ranging from political interference to operational inefficiencies, privatization/PSP is not a viable or sustainable solution,” it added.
