Former President John Dramani Mahama has voiced his disappointment over the $190 million loss designated for private sector involvement in electricity distribution under the US Millennium Compact.
In a Facebook post, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer attributed this loss to what he described as “corrupt, ‘yenkyendi’, and cronyistic governance practices” led by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Mahama pledged to enhance private sector efficiency in the electricity distribution system, including metering, revenue management, and fault response if reelected in the upcoming December 7 general elections.
He also vowed to ensure a thorough investigation of the PDS scandal to hold those involved accountable.
The Power Distribution Services (PDS) Ghana Limited takeover, awarded a 25-year concession to manage the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), was mired in controversy.
Signed in March 2019, it was suspended in July 2019 due to fraud allegations. The cancellation of the PDS concession agreement led to the US government halting the transfer of the $190 million funds earmarked for long-term sustainability of energy sector investments under the MCC’s Ghana Power Compact.
Below is the complete statement:
Dear fellow Ghanaians,
It’s disheartening to learn that the $190 million we negotiated for private sector participation in electricity distribution under the US Millennium Compact has been lost due to Nana Addo and Bawumia’s corrupt, ‘yenkyendi’, and cronyistic governance practices.
This is unacceptable, and we deserve better as a people.
As I gear up to assume the presidency in January 2025, thanks to your votes and endorsement in this year’s election, I want to assure you that I will work diligently to enhance private sector efficiency in the electricity distribution system, including metering, revenue management, and fault response.
My administration will prioritise accountability and ensure a thorough investigation of the PDS scandal to hold those involved accountable.
We can work together to build a brighter future for Ghana’s power sector that benefits citizens and businesses.
Let’s stand together, fight against corruption and cronyism, and work towards building the Ghana we want.
#LetsBuildGhanaTogether
#Mahama4Change2024
