Ashanti Regional Minister Defends Arrest of ECG Manager, Refuses to Apologize

Simon Osei-Mensah, the Ashanti Regional Minister, stands firm amid controversy surrounding the arrest of the Ashanti Regional Manager of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).

Refusing to offer apologies, Osei-Mensah defended his decision, citing security concerns as the driving force behind the arrest.

In a recent press conference held in Kumasi, the Minister disclosed that his actions stemmed from the need to address security threats within the electricity sector.

He emphasized his duty to maintain security, invoking the Securities and Intelligence Act of 2020 to justify his actions.

Furthermore, Osei-Mensah highlighted ongoing efforts to settle outstanding debts owed by Kumasi Technical University to the ECG, indicating a broader context for his intervention.

Contrary to claims suggesting managerial interference, the Minister clarified that the ECG managers were not affiliated with the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), dispelling allegations of undue influence.

In his defense, Osei-Mensah reiterated his commitment to fulfilling his responsibilities without overstepping legal boundaries.

He questioned the necessity of apologizing for actions undertaken in the interest of public safety, asserting the legitimacy of his security mandate.

With tensions lingering, the Minister’s unwavering stance underscores the complexities of balancing security imperatives with institutional autonomy within the region’s energy landscape.