Ghana’s former Energy Minister under fire over unitization dispute

Former Energy Minister and Vice-Presidential Running Mate Matthew Opoku Prempeh faces scrutiny over his role in Ghana’s oil unitization dispute involving Eni, Vitol, and Springfield.

Despite a 2021 suspension of earlier directives, Opoku Prempeh introduced a new Heads of Decision (HoD), which critics, including IMANI Africa’s Bright Simons, say disregarded investor concerns and led to arbitration.

A tribunal ruled against Ghana, citing ministerial bias and hostility toward Eni and Vitol.

Simons argues that Opoku Prempeh’s claim of non-involvement contradicts documented events.

The ruling has strained Ghana’s investor relations, highlighting concerns over regulatory stability.

As Ghana seeks foreign investment in its energy sector, this case emphasizes the need for transparency, consistency, and fair regulation to avoid costly disputes.