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Several civil society groups, including the Moving Africa Pan-Africanist Movement, Ghana in Planet Repairs Action Dialogue (GIPRAD), African Continental Unity Party (ACUP), Activists of the Convention People's Party (CPP), and some individuals, have petitioned the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to advise the government against its plans to privatise the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).
In a letter addressed to the General Secretary of TUC, Alhaji Iddrisu Fuseini, on 28th January, the petitioners stated that their opposition to the privatisation of ECG is summed up in a campaign titled "Civic Action Alert: Ghanaian Citizens Against Privatisation of Utility Companies."
They strongly opposed the policy, arguing that privatisation would exacerbate socioeconomic inequalities, increase utility costs, and compromise public access to essential services.
The document, signed by the chairman of the Moving Africa Pan-Africanist Movement, Explo Nathaniel Nani-Kofi, warned that if the government proceeds with the privatisation, the country could face higher costs for essential services, job losses, a lack of accountability, and a reduction in national sovereignty.
Instead of privatising ECG, the petitioners recommended that the government focus on anti-corruption measures, modernisation investments, and transparent governance to ensure the company’s sustainability.
The groups highlighted that state-run utility companies are vital to community development and stressed that privatisation could prioritise profits over people.
They urged President John Mahama and his administration to take their concerns seriously, noting that they are citizens who exercise their constitutional and democratic rights to express these views.
The government has established a seven-member committee to review the proposed privatisation of ECG and provide guidance on how to proceed.
Energy Minister John Jinapor has also instructed the newly inaugurated committee to consult with stakeholders within the power distribution sector and develop a comprehensive plan for privatisation within one month.
The committee, composed of energy experts and key stakeholders, is tasked with outlining strategies for transitioning ECG to private sector management, aiming to improve efficiency and service delivery.

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