By King Amoah.
Residents of the Ashanti region are voicing increasing frustration and suspicion over persistent power outages, locally termed “Dumsor,” since the National Democratic Congress (NDC) victory in the December 7 elections.
While power outages were an issue before the NDC took office, the recent intensification has fueled accusations that the Ashanti Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) is deliberately sabotaging the government.
The “Dumsor” crisis is sparking heated debates in the region, with some residents drawing parallels to the power outages that contributed to the NDC’s loss of power eight years ago. While acknowledging the pre-existing electricity challenges inherited from the previous NPP administration, many are now pointing fingers at the Ashanti ECG, alleging a politically motivated campaign to undermine the current government.
“We know such people working against Mahama’s government at the power outfit in the Ashanti region,” claimed NDC supporter John Mendez. He, along with others interviewed, believe that NPP-affiliated workers within the ECG are deliberately exacerbating the electricity problems to make the NDC government unpopular in the region.
These interviews reveal a widely held suspicion that the current level of “Dumsor” in Ashanti is not due to technical difficulties but rather a calculated act of sabotage orchestrated by NPP-influenced employees at the ECG.
To address this growing unrest and prevent further damage to the NDC’s reputation in the region, Kumasi residents are calling on the Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, to intervene. They are urging Dr. Amoakohene to hold urgent meetings with the ECG to investigate these allegations and find a swift resolution to the power outages.
“We hope attention would be taken immediately by the Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene to help restore the reputation of the NDC in the Ashanti region,” stated one concerned resident.
The persistent power outages are not only disrupting daily life and hindering economic activity but also fueling political tensions. The call for intervention from the Regional Minister highlights the urgent need to address the “Dumsor” crisis and restore public trust in the electricity supply, regardless of political affiliations.
The situation underscores the importance of a transparent investigation into the allegations of sabotage and a commitment to ensuring a stable and reliable power supply for the residents of the Ashanti region.
