Afenyo-Markin Urges Gyan Mensah Not to Yield to "Forces of Darkness" on ECG Privatization

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has urged Richard Gyan-Mensah, the Deputy Minister-Designate for Energy and Green Transition, to stand resolute in the face of any opposition to the privatisation of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). He emphasized that only courageous and determined leadership would be capable of driving the essential reforms needed in the country’s energy sector.

During Gyan-Mensah’s vetting session before Parliament’s Appointments Committee, Afenyo-Markin expressed concern that previous efforts to privatise ECG had been derailed due to political interference and entrenched interests that blocked progress. He pointed out that these hindrances had prevented the reforms that could have improved efficiency in the power sector, a crucial area for the nation’s economic stability.

“I pray that the privatisation initiative, which was initially started by the previous administration but was abandoned due to political reasons, will be revived and successfully implemented during your tenure,” Afenyo-Markin said. “When these same forces, which have historically resisted progress in the sector, attempt to frustrate you, I hope you will have the courage and determination to press forward with the privatisation process.”

The Minority Leader has long been a strong proponent of privatisation, believing that it holds the key to improving the operational efficiency of the ECG and reducing the financial burden it places on the state. He made it clear that the current state of the ECG, if left unaddressed, would continue to drain the country’s resources. Afenyo-Markin urged Gyan-Mensah to be bold in implementing the changes needed, insisting that now more than ever, the country needed leadership willing to make tough decisions.

“I am a supporter of privatisation because I believe it will bring the necessary efficiency,” he explained. “I hope you will take the bold step required to make this happen.”

Afenyo-Markin also reflected on the recurring pattern in Ghanaian politics, particularly in the energy sector. He noted that inefficiencies in state-run institutions, such as the ECG, are often raised as key issues during election campaigns. However, once in power, subsequent administrations have failed to take meaningful action to resolve these issues. This ongoing cycle of neglect, according to Afenyo-Markin, has exacerbated the problems facing the energy sector and other state institutions, leading to repeated disappointments.

He emphasized that Gyan-Mensah should collaborate closely with the Energy Minister to push through the necessary reforms, warning that any failure to act decisively could have dire consequences for the country’s economic well-being. Afenyo-Markin cautioned that if the leadership continued to shy away from bold action, the financial strain and inefficiency within the energy sector would continue to worsen, placing additional pressure on the country’s economy.

“There is a serious drain on us as a country,” Afenyo-Markin said. “If we do not stand firm and take action, the system will continue to collapse under its own weight. We cannot afford to wait any longer for reforms.”

The call for the privatisation of ECG remains a divisive issue in Ghana’s energy sector. Supporters argue that it would improve the company’s operational efficiency, reduce waste, and relieve the government of its financial burdens. However, opponents are concerned that privatisation could lead to job losses and rising electricity prices, which could put an additional strain on the population, particularly low-income households.

In light of these concerns, Afenyo-Markin’s statement highlights the need for bold leadership capable of making difficult but necessary decisions. The energy sector is at a crossroads, and the future of ECG’s privatisation could be a determining factor in the country’s ability to achieve greater economic stability and growth. The tension between reform and resistance will likely continue to shape the conversation as Ghana navigates this complex issue.

Ultimately, Afenyo-Markin’s plea is a call for action, urging Gyan-Mensah and the government to prioritize long-term reforms over short-term political interests for the betterment of the country’s energy sector and its economy as a whole.