Concerned VRA workers raise red-flags over leadership shake-up & staff movement

Yesterday, the Minister of Energy and Green Transition John Jinapor met with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) caucus to address rising concerns over recent leadership changes at the Volta River Authority (VRA). These changes, which have sparked internal unrest, follow an unexpected promotion by Acting Chief Executive Officer Edward Obeng-Kenzo that has left many employees and stakeholders questioning the legitimacy and motives behind the appointments.

On Friday, Obeng-Kenzo met with the leadership of the VRA Workers Union to discuss the new developments, which include the promotion of several individuals perceived to have close ties to the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). Of particular concern is the elevation of directors who are seen as politically motivated cronies rather than qualified professionals.

Among the controversial appointments is the promotion of a director perceived to be NPP loyalist who was granted the high-ranking position of Deputy Chief Executive, Engineering and Operations despite not being technically competent or due for such a position except Samuel Lamptey who is an NDC loyalist. Critics argue that his promotion, alongside others with similar questionable qualifications, threatens the professionalism and operational effectiveness of the VRA.

The moves have raised alarm bells, especially as Obeng-Kenzo is serving in an acting capacity, making his authority and legitimacy more tenuous. Workers have voiced concerns about the lack of transparency and due process in the appointment of these individuals, many of whom have been seen as politically connected rather than technically skilled.

Further complicating matters, Obeng-Kenzo has reportedly threatened to deal with staff he perceives as ‘enemies,’ including those who have voiced concerns about the recent changes and questioned his leadership decisions. The authoritarian nature of these threats has only heightened fears among workers, who now feel that any dissent or opposition will be met with punitive measures rather than constructive dialogue.

Adding to the controversy is the promotion of a director who, despite possessing an engineering background, has not worked as an engineer for the past decade, raising questions about his relevance to the role and the integrity of the hiring process.

The workers’ concerns are clear: these recent changes appear to be driven more by political affiliations than by merit or competency. If the President and the Ministry of Energy do not act swiftly to address the unrest within the VRA, tensions are likely to escalate, further straining relations between management and staff.

In a statement issued by the Concerned Workers of VRA, they expressed their growing frustration, warning that the situation could worsen if their grievances are ignored. “If the President does not listen to us now, he shouldn’t blame us when tension escalates,” the statement concluded.

As the issue continues to unfold, all eyes are now on the Minister of Energy and the President, who will have to address the underlying issues that have led to this growing crisis at one of the country’s most important state-owned enterprises.