ECG Workers launch nationwide red-flag protest over Transaction Advisor appointment

Workers of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) have begun a nationwide protest against the government’s decision to appoint a transaction advisor for the state-owned power distributor, warning that the move could undermine the company’s future.

The protest, led by the Public Utilities Workers Union (PUWU), involves the hoisting of red flags and the wearing of red armbands at ECG offices across the country.

Union leaders describe the action as symbolic but say it could escalate if government fails to suspend the appointment and engage the union.

PUWU says it formally wrote to the Ministry of Energy nearly a week ago to raise concerns and request dialogue but has received no response.

Speaking to the media, PUWU General Secretary Timothy Nyame said workers remain committed to the effective operation of ECG but are firmly opposed to the appointment of a transaction advisor.

He stressed that ECG is a strategic national asset that should not be compromised under the guise of reform.

According to him, the red armbands represent workers’ displeasure with what they see as an attempt to introduce private sector participation in the utility, beginning with the appointment of a transaction advisor.

He questioned the necessity of the move, arguing that ECG remains a Ghanaian-owned entity that continues to operate.

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has also backed the protest, urging government to halt the appointment in the interest of industrial harmony and job security. Deputy Secretary General of the TUC, Dr. Kwabena Nyarko Otoo, warned that the decision could disrupt industrial peace and heighten workers’ fears about job losses.

Dr. Otoo noted that past privatization efforts in the country have often resulted in job losses without delivering the promised investments and technological improvements.

He further questioned whether the appointment of a transaction advisor is linked to Ghana’s programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), insisting that the country should pursue an independent economic path.

For now, ECG workers say the red-flag protest will continue nationwide until government addresses their concerns and suspends the appointment of the transaction advisor.