The Senior Staff Association of the Volta River Authority (VRA) has voiced strong opposition to the privatisation of the state-owned power company. The association’s chairman, Theophilus Tetteh Ahia, responded to recent calls for privatisation, including those from prominent figures such as Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who suggested that the government should consider divesting in entities like VRA and the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) to encourage private investment.
While some stakeholders have interpreted the Asantehene’s comments as a push for increased private sector involvement rather than outright privatisation, the VRA’s Senior Staff Association remains unconvinced. “We have witnessed the privatisation of numerous state-owned institutions, and it’s challenging to identify any that have thrived post-privatisation. Many have deteriorated, and jobs have been lost,” Ahia stated.
Ahia further highlighted the operational capacity of VRA, noting that its thermal plants are fully functional and contribute significantly to the national grid. “Independent Power Producers only generate a fraction compared to VRA’s output,” he added.
The chairman’s remarks underscore a broader concern regarding the sale of state entities that are performing well and providing essential services to Ghanaians. “It’s perplexing to hear suggestions to sell off state entities that are doing well and supporting the nation,” Ahia concluded.
The debate continues as the nation grapples with the best approach to managing its critical infrastructure and ensuring efficient service delivery to its citizens.
Source: 3news.com
