The Public Utilities Workers’ Union (PUWU) has strongly opposed what it describes as attempt to privatise the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), warning that workers will resist moves to place the state power distributor under private control.
In a May Day address themed “Unity and Resilience – Defending Public Utilities and Workers’ Rights,” PUWU General Secretary, Timothy Nyame commended workers for their commitment and reaffirmed the union’s resolve to protect public utilities.
He praised ECG staff for sustaining electricity supply despite operational challenges, describing their efforts as central to Ghana’s development.
“Through storms, system challenges, and long hours, you have ensured reliable electricity supply to homes, hospitals, schools and industries. Your work is the backbone of Ghana’s development,” he said.
Mr Nyame also highlighted what he described as internal improvements within ECG, crediting reforms led by management and staff. He noted that a strategy implemented in 2025 significantly boosted the company’s monthly revenue from about GH¢9 million to nearly GH¢2 billion, while also reducing system losses and improving supply stability.
According to him, these gains demonstrate that a well-managed public utility can perform efficiently without privatisation.
However, he raised concerns over the mounting pressure from international financial institutions, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, on government to privatise ECG.
He warned that any attempt to introduce further private sector participation or fragment ECG would amount to a breach of assurances previously given by John Dramani Mahama that the company would remain in public hands.
“We will resist every attempt by government to privatise ECG in part or whole or to further cede its operations to private interests,” he stated.
Mr Nyame stressed that electricity must remain a public service, cautioning that privatisation could weaken accountability and national control over a strategic sector.
He noted that private sector participation already exists within the power value chain, including independent power producers and private firms engaged in billing and meter reading.
Calling for unity among workers, he urged vigilance in defending ECG and safeguarding its future.
“Public utilities must remain for the public and accountable to government and the people,” he said, adding that a strong, unified ECG would better serve the national interest than a fragmented or privatised structure.
The address formed part of activities marking International Workers’ Day, observed annually on May 1 to celebrate the contributions of workers to national development.