Ghana MP Criticizes Renaming of Ameri Power Plant

An opposition Member of Parliament (MP), Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, slammed the government’s decision to rename the Ameri Power Plant as the “Kumasi 1 Thermal Power Plant.”

Buah, who previously served as Power Minister, accused the government of attempting to “conceal its failures” and mislead Ghanaians about the origins of the power plant.

In a statement, Buah argued that renaming the plant is a “deceptive and shameful” tactic to take credit for the accomplishments of the prior administration.

Ameri Power Plant’s Role in Combating Dumsor

Buah highlighted the Ameri plant’s crucial role in addressing Ghana’s past power crisis, known as “dumsor.” The plants, commissioned under the previous government, provided much-needed electricity during a challenging period.

He criticized the current administration for initially discrediting the Ameri project and then renegotiating the contract under unclear terms.

Ownership and Relocation

Buah acknowledged that the Ameri plant is now fully owned by Ghana. However, he questioned the decision to relocate a portion of the plant to the Ashanti region, suggesting it’s a superficial attempt to mask broader energy sector issues.

Accusations of Lack of Innovation

The MP further accused the government of a “renaming spree” that extends beyond universities and now targets the power sector. He argued that this practice reflects a “lack of innovation and leadership” in the energy sector.

Call for Transparency and Accountability

Buah concluded his statement by urging Ghanaians to remember the Ameri plant’s history and criticizing the government’s focus on “hollow promises and superficial gestures” rather than transparency and accountability.