VRA Senior Staff picket against proposed VRA-Bui merger

Senior staff of the Volta River Authority (VRA) and members of the Public Services Workers Union (PSWU) of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) demonstrated at the VRA headquarters yesterday, opposing a proposed merger with the Bui Power Authority.

The draft bill, currently before Parliament, aims to consolidate the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) with the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) and create an independent Thermal Power Authority from VRA's thermal plants.

Theophilus Tetteh Ahia, Chairman of the VRA Senior Staff Association, urged the government to withdraw the merger bill, citing concerns about VRA's future viability and potential job losses.

“Our demand is just for the bill to be withdrawn for a peaceful existence. Because VRA has been established for all these years…The bill that has been laid in parliament should be withdrawn and that is all we are looking for,” he stated.

He continued: “We will continue praying seeking the face of God and we will do everything possible to resist it.”

 Ahia emphasized VRA's efficiency in operating hydro and thermal generation plants and its crucial role in ensuring Ghana's energy security.

VRA staff had previously expressed concerns in a letter to management in May 2024, which went unaddressed.

They now vow to resist the merger, fearing privatization and compromised energy security.

Source : Lead News Online