Managing Director of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Samuel Dubik Mahama, has disclosed that Ghana’s Parliament made a significant payment to have electricity restored after a power outage interrupted proceedings during a debate on President Akufo-Addo’s State of the Nation Address.
The debate was halted abruptly when Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, was on his feet responding to the outgoing Deputy Minister for Finance, Abena Osei-Asare. The chamber was plunged into darkness, bringing the debate to a standstill.
Speaking on Starr Chat with Bola Ray, Samuel Dubik Mahama explained that his office was engaged in a routine revenue collection exercise at Parliament when the outage occurred. He revealed that Parliament had made a substantial payment, covering more than half of their outstanding debt, to have the power restored.
“They gave us money, they paid a substantial amount more than half. I see this as something very beautiful, something that we should all look at as a success. It goes to tell the average citizen that nobody is above it. If the Presidency has paid, Parliament has paid then why is everybody down giving excuses,” Mr. Mahama stated.
However, despite the payment, it was revealed that the disconnection exercise undertaken by ECG officials was due to an outstanding debt of over GH¢23 million. This indicates that Parliament’s payment was a significant step towards resolving the issue and ensuring uninterrupted power supply.
The revelation by the ECG Managing Director sheds light on the proactive steps taken by Parliament to address outstanding debts and ensure essential services like electricity are maintained. It also underscores the importance of timely payments in sustaining critical infrastructure and services for the smooth functioning of government institutions.
As the debate on President Akufo-Addo’s State of the Nation Address resumes, the incident serves as a reminder of the need for responsible financial management and adherence to payment obligations to prevent disruptions in essential services.