MP raises red flags over “half-baked” power barge agreement

A member of the Mines and Energy Committee of Parliament is raising red flags over Government’s agreement to bring in emergency power generators to help address the country’s energy crisis. Mr. William Owuraku Aidoo said the agreement, between Ghana and Emry Energy of Dubai, passed by Parliament was badly drafted and would not inure to the benefit of the country. Per the agreement, the country is expected to bring in 10 generators with the capacity to produce 200 megawatts of power at a cost of 600 million dollars spread over five years. The country is also expected to pay 120 million, a year for five years towards this power lease agreement. He argued the country can safely use this money to buy five of these generators instead of leasing it under this outrageously high price. Owuraku Aidoo said the agreement presents financial risk for Ghana and is demanding the intervention of the President. Speaking to Joy News Editor Dzifa Bampoh, the Mines and Energy Committee member expressed shock that the badly drafted "half-baked" agreement was passed by Parliament. He argued the Minority raised a number of issues with the draft agreement but like the popular maxim, the Minority had its say but the Majority had its way. Even after the House has passed the agreement, the MP said he has information to the effect that the agreement has been returned to the Attorney General's office for some corrections to be made. In a subsequent interview with Myjoyonline.com, the Afigya-Kwabre South MP wondered how a document passed by Parliament would be sent back to the Attorney General for rectification. He said the executive "pulled a fast one" on Parliament, adding when the House reconvenes he would probe the matter even further. For now though, he would want the President to intervene and abrogate the agreement.