The recent allegations of under-declared revenue by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) have sparked a heated debate. However, according to Dr. Elikplim Apetorgbor, Chief Executive of the Independent Power Generators Ghana, the issue goes beyond mere accusations of inefficiency or corporate mismanagement. Instead, it highlights the deeper structural problem of political interference in revenue management.
As a state-owned enterprise, ECG operates in a delicate balance between regulatory compliance and political directives. This means that the company is often caught between following the rules and adhering to political pressures. According to Dr. Apetorgbor, ECG would not dare under-declare revenues unless it was emboldened by a stronger force that overrides its regulatory obligations.
In other words, the problem is not ECG’s internal financial management, but rather the extent to which political interference dictates revenue decisions. Until ECG is granted full operational autonomy, its financial performance will always be subject to political expediencies rather than sound commercial principles.
Dr. Apetorgbor’s statement highlights the need for Ghana to reassess its approach to managing state-owned enterprises like ECG. The country must choose between allowing ECG to function as a true utility business or continuing the cycle of blame without addressing the root cause of the problem. By granting ECG operational autonomy, Ghana can ensure that the company operates based on sound commercial principles rather than political interference.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
