General News of Tuesday, 23 September 2003

Source: Joy Online

VRA Workers Lower Red Flags

Workers at the Volta River Authority’s installations countrywide have reportedly removed the red flags, which were mounted on their office premises in the heat of the dispute with their chief executive. The removal of the flags follows the resignation of Dr Charles Wereko-Brobby, which was confirmed by Energy Minister, Dr. Kwesi Nduom on Monday.

Joy FM sources say the workers’ leaders have planned a meeting on Tuesday afternoon to discuss the recent developments. But they are still waiting for the final list of a 5-member interim management team appointed by government to run the VRA for the next three to four months.

Meanwhile the appointment of Mr. Kweku Awortwi, a manager at the Ashanti Goldfields Company, as chairman of the team, has generated some controversy over a possible conflict of interest. Mr. Awortwi is a key negotiator for AGC’s tariffs discussions with the VRA. But Energy Minister Dr. Kwesi Nduom says consultations are continuing to ensure that his temporary appointment is insulated from his duties back at his parent company.

Information Minister, Nana Akomea, ruled out any possible case of conflict of interest. According to him Mr Awortwi’s stay at VRA will be short, during which the AGC is not expected to enter into negotiations with the VRA.