The Forum for Development and Accountable Governance (FDAG) has has dismissed allegations against the Volta River Authority (VRA) and its Acting CEO, Ing. Edward Obeng-Kenzo, emphasizing that their independent investigation has found no evidence to support claims of discrimination, emotional instability among others
In a statement issue on Thursday February 20 and signed by its Senior Research Fellow, Nana Kojo Abbam, FDAG’s findings, based on a detailed investigation into the allegations, conclude that Ing. Obeng-Kenzo has consistently upheld professionalism, inclusivity, and a commitment to transparency during his tenure at VRA. “We discovered that Ing. Obeng-Kenzo has always upheld professionalism, fairness, and inclusivity at VRA”. It continued that “FDAG established that through out his tenure, he has worked harmoniously with staff from different backgrounds, ensuring a conducive work environment based on merit and capability rather than some perceived political considerations”.
The civil society organization also took the opportunity to highlight his impressive leadership track record and dedication to transforming Ghana’s energy sector. According to FDAG, as a “staunch advocate for sustainable energy solutions, Ing. Obeng-Kenzo has spearheaded significant projects in the renewable energy space, including the Kaleo Solar Power Plant and the Anwomaso Thermal Power Station”. “These initiatives have played a pivotal role in diversifying Ghana’s energy mix, making it more resilient and environmentally responsible. Under his distinguished leadership, the operational efficiency of the Volta River Authority (VRA) saw visible improvements. Ing. Obeng-Kenzo’s focus on optimizing VRA’s thermal generation capacity and streamlining operational processes has translated into enhanced productivity and a more robust energy sector”. The statement stressed.
The NVF had alleged that Ing. Obeng-Kenzo was involved in discriminatory practices against staff, used divide-and-rule tactics, and was emotionally unstable and a bully. FDAG, however, categorically rejected these accusations, describing them as unfounded and misleading.
FDAG further emphasized that Ing. Obeng-Kenzo’s leadership style was one of inclusivity, ensuring that all staff, irrespective of their political affiliation or position within the company, were treated equally. The report further highlighted that his approach to staff engagement was not aimed at creating divisions, but rather at addressing specific concerns effectively. “Ing. Obeng-Kenzo has always been an advocate of teamwork and unity,” the statement read. “His leadership style is inclusive, ensuring that all staff—both junior and senior—have a voice in VRA’s operations. His approach to engaging different staff groups separately was to understand their specific concerns, not to create division.”
This theme of fairness and transparency was also echoed by staff members that FDAG spoke to during its investigation, who unanimously agreed that they had never experienced discrimination under Ing. Obeng-Kenzo’s leadership. The CEO, they affirmed, had always treated all employees with respect and had fostered an environment that encouraged teamwork and open communication.
Another serious allegation against Ing. Obeng-Kenzo was that he was emotionally unstable and a bully. FDAG was quick to dismiss this, pointing out the lack of credible evidence and the absurdity of such claims. “Since when did the group (NVF) become certified psychologists capable of diagnosing emotional instability? Are they now running a psychiatric evaluation unit alongside their anti-corruption campaign?” the statement from FDAG remarked with incredulity. “This preposterous claim will be treated with the contempt it deserves.”
The FDAG also reminded the public that Ing. Obeng-Kenzo is a seasoned professional who has spent over 25 years in Ghana’s energy sector, managing large-scale projects, navigating complex challenges, and leading thousands of employees. “It takes discipline, intelligence, and strategic leadership to steer an organization like VRA, qualities Ing. Obeng-Kenzo has demonstrated time and again,” FDAG pointed out. The statement further highlighted his calm and calculated approach to decision-making, stressing that the VRA CEO’s ability to handle high-pressure situations without resorting to emotional outbursts was a testament to his leadership capacity.
In closing, FDAG called on the public to disregard the unfounded attacks on Ing. Obeng-Kenzo’s character and to focus instead on his contributions to the growth and development of Ghana’s energy sector. “Ing. Obeng-Kenzo has proven himself as a leader who combines technical expertise, strategic foresight, and an unyielding commitment to the growth and sustainability of Ghana’s energy sector,” FDAG concluded. His leadership at VRA has been characterized by integrity, transparency, and a clear vision for the future of Ghana’s energy sector.
FDAG reiterated its commitment to promoting good governance, transparency, and accountability in all sectors of national development, and assured the public that it would continue to advocate for truth and integrity in the face of politically motivated attacks.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
