In recent weeks, Ghana has been facing a surge in power outages, causing inconvenience and discontent among its populace. The situation escalated during a pivotal football match between Ghana and Ethiopia at Cape Coast Stadium during the All African Games. Spectators found themselves in darkness as stadium lights abruptly failed, leading to a temporary halt in the match until power was restored several minutes later. This occurrence has triggered speculation regarding the underlying motives behind the persistent power interruptions.
Many voices have singled out the Energy Ministry, suggesting a deliberate effort to undermine the presidential aspirations of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia ahead of the 2024 General Elections. Dr. Bawumia, the flagbearer of the ruling party, is widely regarded as a potential candidate to continue as president of Ghana after Nana Akufo-Addo.
However, the recurrent power disruptions are viewed as a strategy to tarnish the reputation of this government and diminish Dr. Bawumia’s prospects of reaching the nation’s highest office.
Critics contend that the timing of these outages, particularly during significant events like the football match, raises suspicions of intentional embarrassment. Beyond inconveniencing spectators, the disruptions cast a negative light on the government’s capacity to ensure essential services such as electricity provision.
The opposition party has seized upon the situation, criticizing the government for negligence and inadequate investment in energy infrastructure. They argue that the current state of affairs is a result of insufficient upkeep and planning, rather than mere technical glitches.
As Ghana grapples with the repercussions of these power outages, attention remains firmly fixed on the Energy Ministry and its management of the crisis. With the 2024 General Elections approaching, many believe the energy ministry has a hidden agenda against Dr. Bawumia.
Credit Nana Kwasi Asare
