ECG workers launch nationwide red-flag protest over transaction advisor appointment

Workers of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) have commenced a nationwide protest, hoisting red flags at offices across the country to express opposition to the government’s decision to appoint a transaction advisor for the power distributor.

The protest, led by the Public Utilities Workers Union (PUWU), warns that the appointment could jeopardize ECG’s future and signals the possibility of further industrial action if the government does not suspend the decision.

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has also called on the government to halt the appointment, urging a reconsideration to maintain industrial peace.

Nearly a week after PUWU raised concerns, the Energy Ministry has yet to respond to a formal request for dialogue submitted by the union. PUWU General Secretary, Timothy Nyame, told the media that the workers remain committed to ensuring the effective functioning of ECG but insist the appointment must be suspended. He added that agitation could escalate if the government ignores their concerns.

TUC Deputy Secretary General, Dr. Kwabena Nyarko Otoo, emphasized that the move could disrupt the country’s industrial stability and reaffirmed the Congress’s long-standing opposition to the privatization of state-owned utilities.

Questions have also emerged about whether the appointment of the transaction advisor is linked to Ghana’s programme with the International Monetary Fund.

For now, the red-flag protest will continue until the government addresses the workers’ concerns.