Settle ECG debt or embrace ‘dumsor’ this Christmas – Ghana Gas staff to gov’t

The Ghana Gas Senior Staff Association (GGSSA) is urging an immediate payment of debts due to Ghana Gas by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to help avert a possible return to the era of intermittent power outages.

The association warns that this outstanding payment poses a significant threat to the stability and operations of Ghana Gas, a vital pillar of the nation’s energy sector.

In a press statement issued on Monday, the GGSSA emphasized the need for immediate debt settlement and adherence to International Monetary Fund (IMF) conditionalities.

According to the association, the IMF conditionality emphasized the timely payments to state-owned enterprises in the energy sector, adding that ECG’s departure from these guidelines raises concerns about the overall financial discipline within the industry and undermines the efforts to align with international best practices.

“In recent times, a concerning trend has emerged within Ghana’s Energy Sector is the non-payment by the ECG to various State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), with the Ghana National Gas Company (Ghana Gas) standing out as a critical victim of this financial neglect. This issue not only raises questions about financial prudence but also poses a significant threat to the stability and operations of Ghana Gas, a cornerstone of the nation’s Energy Sector.

“The GGSSA is calling for the immediate payment due to Ghana Gas. This is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. Adherence to IMF conditionality and presidential directives is crucial for maintaining financial stability and ensuring the seamless functioning of critical entities within the energy sector.

“We call for prudent actions to reinstate the Cash Water Fall Mechanism and payment of all outstanding invoices due Ghana Gas to give reliable gas supply to prevent power crisis (dumsor) on innocent Ghanaians & the country at Large,” it added.