Member of Parliament for Walewale, Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, has accused Energy Minister John Jinapor of using fear tactics to manage the country’s ongoing energy crisis.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Big Issue on Saturday, May 17, Kabiru criticised what he described as the minister’s “scaremongering,” urging him instead to inspire hope and offer clear, sustainable solutions.
“Since he assumed office, it has been one alarm after the other,” Kabiru stated. “And I understand he is doing that because it gives him the leeway to award contracts without passing through procurement.
“My intelligence and oversight suggest that over GH₵200 million worth of sole-sourcing has been done without going through the right process. He should stop the scare-mongering and be more of a hope monger.”
His remarks come as the energy sector grapples with significant challenges. The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition recently revealed that the country needs an urgent GH₵1.1 billion to purchase liquid fuel for power generation, with current reserves projected to last only 2.6 days.
The sector is also battling a GH₵2 billion monthly deficit, largely attributed to the Electricity Company of Ghana’s persistent revenue collection challenges.
Kabiru expressed frustration that rather than building public confidence, the Energy Minister’s approach appears to generate panic and potentially justify emergency procurement decisions.
He called for a shift from alarmist rhetoric to constructive leadership focused on restoring stability and trust in the energy sector.