Ghana: ECG Workers Hoist Red Flags To Protest Gov’t Plan To Appoint Transaction Advisor For PSP

Workers in Ghana’s power sector, under the aegis of the Public Utilities Workers Union (PUWU), have begun a nationwide protest by hoisting red flags to oppose the government’s plan to appoint a transaction advisor, following the official launch of the Guiding Framework for Private Sector Participation (PSP) in the electricity distribution sector.

The workers say the move could threaten the future of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and have warned of further industrial action if the government fails to suspend the intended appointment.

According to PUWU, private sector participation in the electricity distribution sector is unnecessary, arguing that ECG is on track to meet key performance indicators agreed between the company and the Minister of Energy, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, during a recent meeting.

Red flags now adorn ECG offices across the country as part of the protest.

Addressing the media on Monday, PUWU General Secretary Timothy Nyame said workers remain committed to the effective functioning of ECG but insist that the appointment of a transaction advisor must be suspended.

He warned that agitation could escalate if the government ignores their concerns.

Deputy Secretary General of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), Dr. Kwabena Nyarko Otoo, also cautioned that the move could disrupt industrial peace and urged the government to reconsider its decision.

The TUC maintains its long-standing opposition to the privatization of state-owned utilities.

There are also questions over whether the proposed appointment of the transaction advisor is linked to Ghana’s programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

For now, workers say the red-flag protest will continue until their concerns are addressed.