Concerns rise over potential appointment of Ekow Obeng Kenzo as Acting Chief Executive of VRA
Human Rights Reporters
2 min read
In a bold statement issued today, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) caucus, alongside numerous employees of the Volta River Authority (VRA), has expressed serious opposition to the possible appointment of Mr. Ekow Obeng Kenzo as acting Chief Executive.
This decision, they warn, could severely undermine the credibility and operational integrity of the institution.
Mr. Kenzo’s controversial candidacy arises amidst grave allegations of his involvement in a $52 million procurement scandal alongside former Chief Executive, Mr. Emmanuel Antwi Darkwa.
The allegations, which were brought to light on the online program ‘With All Due Respect TV (WADR-TV)’ hosted by Kelvin Taylor, highlight troubling procurement practices that have sparked concerns over transparency and accountability at the VRA.
Additionally, Mr. Kenzo faces accusations of inept crisis management following a disastrous decision to open the spillway gates of the Akosombo Dam.
This act, executed without adequate stakeholder consultation or precautionary measures, led to catastrophic flooding that displaced thousands of residents in surrounding communities.
Witnesses and experts suggest that better coordination with experienced staff from prior spillage events could have alleviated the situation.
Concerns about Mr. Kenzo’s leadership style have also surfaced. Described by some staff as an authoritarian “bully,” he is said to have fostered a toxic workplace environment through arbitrary decision-making and disparaging remarks.
Reports of personal misconduct, including allegations of inappropriate workplace relationships, have further tarnished his standing among VRA employees.
Despite holding the Deputy Chief Executive position for Engineering & Operations, Mr. Kenzo has been criticized for not adding any new megawatts of power to Ghana’s energy grid.
Critics argue that his focus on relocating power units at high costs represents a significant misallocation of resources.
In recent weeks, Mr. Kenzo’s aggressive lobbying efforts for the Chief Executive role have raised eyebrows, prompting questions about his motives.
Allegations of using bribes to secure his appointment have surfaced, intensifying scrutiny of his candidacy.
The NDC caucus and VRA employees are calling for appointing authorities to halt any potential appointment of Mr. Kenzo and instead initiate a comprehensive investigation into his past actions, which have reportedly resulted in significant financial losses for the VRA.
Current conditions dictate that VRA, a vital component of Ghana’s energy sector, requires leadership that embodies integrity and professionalism.
Stakeholders demand a leader who is committed to progress, employee relations, and the safeguarding of the nation’s energy resources.
For further media inquiries or details, please contact:
Jacob Amartey: 0555533354 / 0244630442
William Agbenuawor: 0240183494
Abraham Tetteh: 0244357529
The VRA deserves a leader that reflects the values of accountability, expertise, and a vision for sustainable energy development.
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