In the face of the ongoing fluctuating power supplies, the Ghana Union of Traders’ Association (GUTA), has joined their contemporaries like PURC and CSOs, in calling for the release of a loadshedding timetable.

Speaking on Okay FM’s 'Ade Akye Abia' programme on Monday, April 29, the National Public Relations Officer (P.R.O) for GUTA, Mr. Joseph Padi said, "for a long time now, we have been waiting patiently for a timetable but it appears that it is not forthcoming although there has been a clarion call from PURC and other CSOs for the release of a load shedding time table. We are also adding our voices to the call because, the incessant power outages is greatly affecting businesses and trading in general."

The P.R.O for GUTA was of the opinion that if the timetable is released, it will enable business owners and traders to plan out their businesses.

"We believe that with the release of the timetable, we can plan our businesses. Cold store operators, manufacturers of diapers and toiletries, operators of printing press, amongst others can have a clear-cut plan for the direction they want their businesses to take."

In a rebuttal to the comment made by the Managing Director of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Mr. Samuel Dubik, claiming that the usage of electricity is a privilege and not a right, Mr. Padi dismissed the notion adding that the electricity used is being paid for by the customer, hence it is not a[PA1] privilege but a right.

"The use of electricity is our right not a privilege because we pay for the power we consume. You are toying with the businesses of Ghanaians in general. Bar operators have been complaining of customers rejecting their drinks because they become flat due to the erratic power outages."

Mr. Padi added that, many cold stores are now relying solely on generators which has added to their cost of operation due to the surge in fuel prices.

"People’s businesses are being destroyed, others are also losing their jobs due to the power outages, cost of operation and production has sky-rocketed. The situation is direr than we think. We are looking forward to having the issues resolved amicably in order to bring relief to all traders. We shall do everything within our power to provide some level of relief for our members and  all traders," Mr. Padi added.


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