Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin
The Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, has called on the Mahama-led administration to implement stringent measures to address the widespread power outages, commonly referred to as ‘dumsor,’ affecting the nation.
His remarks come in response to the ongoing power outages, which have sparked numerous complaints from Ghanaians.
Afenyo-Markin stated that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government has been in office for less than three months, yet the country is already grappling with dumsor.
“We are barely three months into office under this new administration, and we don’t expect dumsor to return,” he said.
During parliamentary proceedings on March 14, 2025, while discussing the dismissal of Dr. Akuffo Dampare as Ghana’s Inspector General of Police, Afenyo-Markin urged the government to channel the same vigour it demonstrated in removing the IGP into tackling the power crisis.
He emphasised the urgency of taking action to resolve the issue.
“Yesterday, we heard about the sacking of IGP Dampare. The president dismissed him, and COP Yohuno is taking over. The statement from the government spokesperson and the Minister in charge of Government Communication did not express any gratitude for his service.
“The statement simply announced that the president had made a new appointment. The IGP was dismissed yesterday, and there will be a swearing-in tomorrow. Mr. Speaker, during the business statement, I expected the honourable member presenting it to address the electricity situation,” he said.
Afenyo-Markin also highlighted the power outages affecting various regions across Ghana, emphasizing their negative impact.
He claimed that many people are suffering in their homes, students are unable to study, and businesses are already on the brink of collapse due to these interruptions.
As a matter of urgency, he called on the energy minister to present a comprehensive report on the power outage schedule to enable citizens to plan their daily activities effectively.
“Yes, Mr. Speaker, I read about the Electricity Company of Ghana’s scheduled outages on March 11 and 12 across Ashanti, Volta, Greater Accra, and Tema, while unscheduled blackouts, with some lasting 24 hours, were also reported.
“Mr. Speaker, these frequent power outages are disrupting businesses and students’ studies. I urge the Minister of Energy to come to this house and provide a clear schedule, and this can only happen if the leader of government business takes the matter seriously,” he added.
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