The Deputy Secretary General of the Trades Union Congress (Ghana), Dr. Kwabena Nyarko Otoo, has stated that Organised Labour will resist any attempt to privatise the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, May 16, Dr. Otoo expressed strong concerns regarding ongoing discussions about restructuring and potential privatisation models for key state-owned enterprises under national economic reform programmes.

He emphasised that the TUC and its affiliate unions remain firmly opposed to handing the utility provider over to private control.

“The TUC and its affiliates will also be ready to ensure that we use every legitimate means to stop this privatisation,” Dr. Otoo warned.

IMF Directives on Energy Sector Reforms

The union's stance comes in response to pressure from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for Ghana to fast-track private sector participation in the operations of the ECG.

The IMF has warned that deep-seated structural issues within the energy sector continue to threaten the country's public finances and broader economic stability.

The recommendation was a key part of discussions between a visiting IMF staff team, led by Ruben Atoyan, and Ghanaian authorities.

The mission took place in Accra from April 29 to May 15 for the sixth and final review of Ghana’s Extended Credit Facility programme.

In a statement released at the conclusion of the mission, the IMF noted that protecting public resources would require stronger structural reforms in both the energy and cocoa sectors.

TUC Defends Public Ownership

Dr Otoo countered the IMF's position, arguing that the state utility provider has demonstrated the capacity to self-reform without being sold off. He pointed out that the ECG has made notable improvements in both its revenue performance and operational reach.

Furthermore, he cautioned against adopting private concession models for electricity distribution, citing international examples where such transitions led to concerns over affordability, restricted access, and poor long-term sustainability.

Dr Otoo concluded that while reforms within the power sector are necessary, they must be achieved without undermining public ownership, inflating tariffs, or reducing electricity access for ordinary consumers.