IET-GH condemns the Ashanti Regional Minister for the arrest of ECG boss

The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) has issued a scathing condemnation of Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei Mensah, for his involvement in the arrest of Ing Michael Wiafe, General Manager of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).

Describing the incident as an abuse of power and a deviation from due process, the IET emphasized the Minister’s obligation to seek guidance from the appointed Managing Director rather than resorting to direct action.

Ing. Michael Wiafe, who serves as the Ashanti East ECG Manager, was apprehended and charged following allegations of inciting public unrest, reportedly stemming from the disconnection of power to Kumasi Technical University over a GH₵600,000.00 debt.

President of IET, Henry Kwadwo Boateng, speaking to Adom News, highlighted the unacceptability of the Minister’s behavior, stressing that public servants are duty-bound to operate under hierarchical structures and follow directives accordingly.

Boateng further criticized the Minister’s actions as demotivating for public servants, asserting that such conduct should be unequivocally condemned.

The IET’s censure extends beyond engineers to all public servants, emphasizing the imperative of safeguarding the rights of individuals working under directives.

Highlighting a crucial detail, Boateng clarified that the team responsible for disconnecting the power hailed from Accra, not Kumasi, where Ing. Wiafe, the Kumasi ECG Area Engineer, was overseeing operations.

 

This incident drew a broader concerns regarding the conduct of public officials, stressing the significance of adherence to due process and established communication channels.

Ultimately, it emphasizes the need for accountability and respect for hierarchical structures within public service institutions.

Source: adomonline.com