The General Transport Petroleum Chemical Workers Union (GTPCWU) has raised serious concerns about the dissolved Board of Directors of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), calling on President Mahama to establish an independent committee to investigate their actions. The union alleges that the board’s decisions were often driven by personal interests rather than the welfare of the refinery and the nation. They claim that a select few board members – Mr. Apenteng, Mrs. Sapara Grant, and Mr. Ato Morisson – dominated decision-making, excluding other members and leading to potentially damaging consequences for TOR. The union’s core argument centers on the need for accountability and transparency in the management of this vital national asset. They believe a thorough, impartial investigation is crucial to restoring public trust and ensuring the future stability of TOR.
The GTPCWU has identified several specific areas of concern that warrant investigation. First, they question the board’s pursuit of a partnership with Decimal Capital-VITOL, despite VITOL’s explicit denial of involvement in such an arrangement. This raises questions about the board’s due diligence and transparency in pursuing this partnership. Second, the union alleges that the board facilitated the creation of Torentco Asset Management Limited, a special purpose vehicle established by Decimal Capital shareholders, to obscure structural irregularities within TOR. This suggests a deliberate attempt to conceal potentially problematic financial dealings. Third, the union claims the board colluded with external individuals and compromised TOR workers to establish Tema Energy and Processing Limited, including the creation of a TOR Workers Charity Trust without the knowledge or consent of the workers themselves. This raises concerns about conflicts of interest and potential misappropriation of funds.
Furthermore, the GTPCWU alleges that the board implemented questionable promotions and reassignments, rewarding individuals involved in the aforementioned schemes while sidelining competent managers who resisted their manipulations. This suggests a systemic effort to silence dissent and consolidate control within the refinery. The union also raises concerns about the irregular issuance of contracts, specifically referencing the RFP process and subsequent agreements with NETOLL, calling for a thorough examination of these dealings. Taken together, these allegations paint a picture of a board prioritizing personal gain over the best interests of TOR and the nation.
Beyond the specific allegations against the TOR board, the GTPCWU also condemns the increasing incidents of thuggery within the petroleum and energy sector. They call on President Mahama to direct law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute those responsible for attacks on institutions like Bui Power Authority, Ghana Gas, BOST, and TOR itself. This broader concern highlights the volatile environment surrounding Ghana’s energy sector and the need for strong government intervention to ensure the safety and security of these critical national assets.
The union’s call for an independent committee underscores the urgency of the situation. They argue that such a committee is essential not only to hold the former board accountable but also to send a clear message that corruption and mismanagement will not be tolerated. This also serves as a preventative measure, discouraging future boards from engaging in similar practices. By demanding transparency and accountability, the GTPCWU aims to protect TOR from further harm and ensure its continued operation as a vital component of Ghana’s energy infrastructure.
The ultimate goal of the GTPCWU’s appeal is to safeguard the future of TOR and the broader energy sector in Ghana. By urging President Mahama to establish an independent investigative committee, they seek to bring to light any wrongdoing, hold those responsible accountable, and implement measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The union’s emphasis on transparency, accountability, and good governance reflects their commitment to protecting not only the interests of their members but also the national interest of Ghana. They believe that a thorough and impartial investigation is essential to restore public trust and ensure the long-term stability and prosperity of the nation’s energy sector.
