PNC Organizer Calls For Privatization of The Water Sector In The Country

The National Youth Organizer of the Peoples' National Convention (PNC), Abu Ramadan has called for privatization of the water sector in the country. Abu Ramadan, speaking on Peace FM's morning show programme "kokrooko", he said privatizing the water sector will help resolve the challenges the sector faces. According to him, the Public Utility Regulatory Commission (PURC) together with the Ghana Water Company has failed in its duties and therefore the only solution to the incessant water problem in the country is when private institutions are contracted to address the challenges. He explained that privatizing the sector will promote competition among water suppliers and ensure that they effectively execute their duties. "In competition, there is perfection," he emphasized. He added that the water shortage that has since characterized the nation affects productivity and it is about time the sector authorities are sanctioned for failure of duty. "I hear the sanctions PURC can give; can even get to the point of going to prison - the Chief Executive [of Ghana Water Company]. Such sanction when implemented could help Ghana…should they implement it, it will put the Chief Executives on their toes," he said. He appealed to government to ensure that the sector is left in private hands while maintaining the PURC as regulators. Meanwhile, the Public Utility Regulatory Commission on Wednesday said it will hold discussions with the Management of the Ghana Water Company to find solutions to the water problem in the country. The Ghana Water Company has announced there will be a six-month rationing of supply of water to various parts of Accra and Tema after the company discovered some structural defects in the Weija Treatment Plant. Four of the 12 filters in the plant are said to be damaged but the company has indicated that the fourth filter which is on the verge of breakdown is under repairs. The sector Minister, Collins Dauda, has also given an assurance that the Water Resources, Works and Housing Ministry will meet with the authorities to discuss ways to improve the water distribution channel. Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana