By Alero Azeez

In what can only be described as a plot twist worthy of a comedy film, Ghana's Energy Minister, John Jinapor, has managed to turn the mundane task of tracking shipping containers into a hilarious game of hide-and-seek. On January 24, 2025, Jinapor confidently declared that the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) had 2,500 containers filled with critical equipment stuck at the port. Fast forward to March, and suddenly the number has jumped to 3,000 containers! One can’t help but wonder if these containers have developed a mind of their own and decided to make a run for it.

As if the drama couldn't get any juicier, the Minister, after setting up a committee to investigate this conundrum, presented a report that many in Parliament—indeed, most of the nation—are yet to see. It appears the only thing more elusive than the containers is the actual report itself.

The committee, tasked with this monumental investigation, was reportedly given documents for just over 2,400 containers. Yet, in a shocking turn of events, they discovered that 1,350 containers were unaccounted for. Now, this is where things get really interesting. Were they provided with a spreadsheet detailing the containers, or merely a collection of bills of lading? If it was the latter, did they even bother to verify with the shipping lines? After all, not all bills of lading mean that the containers are lounging around in Ghana; they could be sunbathing somewhere far more pleasant!

Imagine a chef boasting about cooking 3,000 meals only to find that 1,350 of them have mysteriously vanished. One would expect that chef to take a hard look at his kitchen, not blame the delivery driver. Similarly, if the Minister claims to have physically seen 3,000 containers, how can he then turn around and say that 1,350 are missing? This certainly raises some eyebrows and questions about accountability.

Adding to the intrigue is the Minister's apparent desire to privatize Ghana's largest utility, the ECG, which has shown remarkable growth under previous administrations—revenue increased by an impressive 120% without a corresponding 100% hike in tariffs. Is it merely a coincidence that the Minister seems eager to deflect attention onto the ECG amid discussions of privatization?

It’s important to clarify that the containers at the port are not under the control of ECG but rather the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority and the Customs Excise and Preventive Service (CEPS). So, why is the Minister directing blame towards ECG? Could it be that he needs to bolster his privatization agenda?

Furthermore, the committee's performance has been called into question, with critics labeling it a "hatchet job." They failed to interview notable past employees and made recommendations that seem to suggest only those with specific qualifications should lead procurement. If that’s the case, are we to believe that all ministers meet the qualifications for their respective roles, save for the Attorney General as prescribed by the 1992 Constitution?

And what of the 40 containers the Minister claims were retrieved in less than 24 hours from an Indian individual? This revelation has left many scratching their heads and chuckling. One might as well say the Minister found them under his couch cushions!

In conclusion, as this container caper unfolds, we urge Minister Jinapor to prioritize transparency over theatrics. The public deserves clarity, not a farcical script filled with unanswered questions and disappearing cargo. Perhaps it's time for the Minister to let his actions speak louder than his words, or at the very least, invest in a good accountant. After all, in the world of public service, accountability should never go missing.