Samuel Dubik Mahama, the Managing Director of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), has provided reasoning behind the recent disconnection of electricity supply to Parliament, citing a substantial outstanding debt of GH¢23 million owed by the legislature.
The disconnection occurred during the State of the Nation Address (SONA) debate on February 29, 2024, sparking criticism of ECG for interrupting government proceedings.
In defense of ECG’s actions, Mahama stated in an interview with Starr FM that Parliament’s failure to address the outstanding debt necessitated the disconnection. Despite assertions from Parliament’s Deputy Clerk of the Corporate and Financial Management Services Division, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, that all necessary payments to ECG had been made, Mahama maintained that the debt remained unpaid.
The controversy has brought attention to the financial dealings between government institutions and utility providers. Mahama emphasized the importance of settling outstanding debts promptly, highlighting the need for responsible financial management across all sectors.
The disagreement between Parliament and ECG underscores broader challenges within Ghana’s financial landscape, raising questions about accountability and transparency in governmental financial transactions.
The ongoing dispute highlights the complexities of managing public utilities and underscores the importance of effective communication and cooperation between government entities and service providers to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of essential services.
