The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has strongly opposed any plans to privatize the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), warning that such a move could result in significant increases in electricity tariffs and job losses.
At a press conference in Accra on Thursday, April 10, during the annual national executive council meeting of the Public Utility Workers Union (PUWU), TUC General Secretary Timothy Nyame argued that the challenges facing ECG are primarily due to persistent political interference.
The union highlighted several issues affecting ECG, including the distribution of “political meters,” take-or-pay power contracts, frequent leadership changes, politically influenced board appointments, and interference in procurement processes, all of which have hampered the company’s efficiency and financial stability.
Nyame emphasized that ECG could thrive if these challenges are addressed internally, without resorting to privatization.
“ECG is a vital national asset, crucial for economic development, national sovereignty, energy security, and social equity,” the TUC asserted. “While the company faces real challenges, privatization or private sector involvement is not a viable or sustainable solution.”
The union urged the government to pursue reforms that would strengthen ECG from within, instead of opting for privatization, which would negatively impact workers and consumers alike.