President-elect John Dramani Mahama has voiced concerns over the precarious state of Ghana’s energy sector, urging immediate and comprehensive reforms to stabilize the nation’s economy.
During a meeting with Canadian High Commissioner to Ghana, Myriam Montrat, in Accra on Friday, Mahama described the sector as being on the brink of collapse, emphasizing its critical role in national development.
He accused the outgoing government of attempting to paint an overly positive picture of its economic management, stating, “They want to create a more upbeat story before they leave office.” Mahama reaffirmed his resolve to prioritize transparency and tackle systemic challenges upon assuming office.
Remarks from the President-elect, John Dramani Mahama on Ghana’s Energy Sector
We are going to open the books when we come and let Ghanaians know what the true situation is. Because if Ghanaians understand what the true situation is then they will understand some of the measures we will have to take to bring things back, he said.
“The energy sector needs urgent surgery; otherwise, it can collapse everything,” Mahama stated. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving efficiency, ensuring sustainability, and providing reliable energy access to all Ghanaians.
Mahama also criticized the current administration’s optimistic economic narrative, citing a significant $2.5 billion energy sector debt juxtaposed against a $3 billion IMF bailout. “You have a $2.5 billion debt… and you say the economy is turning around,” he noted, warning that the unresolved debt could undermine any progress made.