Kwame Pianim Cautions Board Directors on Their Responsibilities, Warns of Possible Charges

Former Chairman of the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), Kwame Pianim, has emphasized the crucial role of directors on public institution boards, highlighting the legal and judicial responsibilities they carry. Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile, Pianim urged these directors to be vigilant in discharging their duties, reminding them that negligence could result in legal consequences.

He specifically commended the PURC for its recent action in imposing fines on members of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) board for failing to notify consumers of power outages. This penalty, totaling GH₵5,868,000.00, was levied due to the board’s violation of Regulation 39 of L.I. 2413, which mandates prior notification of any power interruptions.

Pianim’s remarks underscore the importance of accountability and adherence to regulations in public institutions. He noted that directors should ensure compliance with policies, such as the Cash Waterfall Mechanism, which prioritizes payment for raw materials before self-compensation.

The PURC’s decision to fine board members, including the former Board Chair and current Managing Director of ECG, sends a strong message about the consequences of failing in their duties. This action is not just about penalizing individuals but also about upholding standards that benefit consumers and the service quality of public utilities.

In conclusion, Pianim’s comments serve as a reminder to all directors on public institution boards to uphold their responsibilities diligently, as failure to do so could lead to legal repercussions.