(VIDEO) Akosombo Fire Not Cause Of Dumsor – Minority Blames Debts To IPPs
Minority links power crisis to sector debts, demands accountability from Energy Minister
- Minority rejects claims that Akosombo fire caused current power outages
- Over $500m owed to Independent Power Producers cited as key cause of instability
- Calls for Energy Minister John Abdulai Jinapor to brief Parliament on crisis measures and levy usage
The Minority Caucus in Parliament has rejected claims linking recent power outages to the fire incident at the Akosombo substation, insisting that the ongoing “dumsor” predates the event and is rooted in deeper financial challenges within the energy sector.
Speaking through the Deputy Ranking Member on the Mines and Energy Committee, Collins Adomako Mensah, the opposition lawmakers argued that the current power instability began in January 2025—months before the Akosombo incident—and should not be attributed to it.
The Minority says the real issue is what it describes as poor financial management and rising arrears in the energy sector, warning that the situation is undermining electricity generation across the country.
Heavy debts to power producers and fuel suppliers
According to the Minority, the government is indebted to Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to the tune of over $500 million, while also owing more than $200 million to fuel suppliers. They argue that these arrears are threatening the consistent supply of power nationwide.
They further claim that the current administration has failed to maintain key reforms introduced under the previous New Patriotic Party government to stabilise the energy sector.
Call for Energy Minister to appear in Parliament
The Minority is demanding that the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, appear before Parliament immediately after recess to explain steps being taken to address the crisis.
They also want accountability on the use of funds generated from the GH¢1 per litre energy sector levy, questioning how the revenue has been utilised in managing sector debts.
The remarks were made during a press briefing held in Parliament, where the Minority urged urgent action to restore stability to the country’s power supply system.
From Martin Kwabena Ahwireng Quaye
