Franklin Cudjoe provides blueprint in dealing with energy sector crisis

The President of IMANI Africa, a policy think tank, has urged the government to pause privatizing parts of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).

Franklin Cudjoe believes this move should be halted. He suggests that the government focus on measures to improve the energy sector first.

Cudjoe outlined five key actions for the government to consider.

He expressed concern about the energy minister's negative tone regarding sector challenges. While acknowledging past debts, he expects a solid plan from the minister.

Cudjoe proposes delaying privatization for at least 18 months. Instead, he recommends starting with these steps:

First, the energy minister and chief director should create an open framework. This framework should involve stakeholders in defining a vision for reliable power.

Second, they must commit to open data and transparency.

Third, they should hold bi-weekly town halls. These meetings will discuss procurement, performance, operations, and evaluations openly.

Any unanswered questions will be addressed within a week.

Fourth, citizens can join the stakeholder group through a simple digital enrollment system.

Fifth, monthly polls will gauge stakeholder opinions. Only those who attend at least one town hall can participate in these polls.

At six months in, progress will be celebrated with feedback provided for improvement.

This model is called RESET: Revitalising the Economy through Stewardship & Ethical Transformation. It aims to enhance formal audits and public financial management controls while making them more meaningful to citizens.