Tension continue to rise in Volta River Authority (VRA) as opposition to the appointment of Ing. Edward Kenzo as Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Volta River Authority (VRA) has intensified, with banners hoisted in Akosombo township expressing strong disapproval.
The banners bear inscriptions such as, “Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng Kenzo Must Go. President Mahama and NDC must not make that mistake.”
Meanwhile,a group calling itself the Grassroots of the NDC, alongside some VRA staff, has been vocal in its opposition to Kenzo’s appointment.
They have expressed their dissatisfaction and are urging President John Mahama to rescind the decision.
In a statement, the group said, “We are by this medium sending our displeasure to the appointment committee and the president, H.E. John Mahama, to as a matter of urgency rescind any move to have Ing. Edward Kenzo appointed. We need a better alternative. We deserve better, and we need someone who can always be there for the grassroots and also contribute to the well-being of VRA.”
The group has leveled several allegations against Kenzo, including his alleged involvement in a $52 million sole-sourcing procurement scandal in 2022, alongside the current CEO, Mr. Antwi Darkwa. This scandal was reportedly broadcast on WADR television.
Another major accusation is that Kenzo instructed the opening of the Akosombo Dam spillway gate in 2023 without prior public notice or education, leading to severe flooding and displacement of communities along the Volta Lake. Compensation for affected residents remains unpaid, despite promises from President Mahama to investigate the matter.
Critics have also raised concerns about Kenzo’s leadership style and workplace behavior. Staff at VRA have reportedly described him as a “bully” and criticized his decision-making, claiming he often relies on others, such as Mr. Kenneth Arthur, to make critical decisions. Allegations of favoritism and inappropriate relationships with female staff have also been raised, with some married men allegedly confronting him at the VRA headquarters.
In terms of professional contributions, Kenzo has been criticized for failing to add even 1MW of conventional power during his tenure. Instead, he focused on relocating the Ameri power units from Aboadze to Kumasi at a cost of $32 million. Critics contrast this with the achievements of non-engineer executives like Mr. Ofedie and Mr. Kalitsi, who initiated major power projects such as the Tema Thermal Power Plant, Kumasi Reserve Power Plant, and Aboadze Thermal Power Plant.
Kenzo’s past has also come under scrutiny, with allegations of his involvement in a cable theft scandal during his time as manager at the Tema Thermal Complex. This led to an investigative committee review, further tarnishing his reputation.
The NDC caucus and VRA staff have vowed to resist any attempt to appoint Kenzo as CEO, citing his alleged incompetence, poor leadership, and questionable conduct. They argue that his appointment would be a grave mistake and undermine the integrity of the VRA.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
