The Minority in Parliament has called for an immediate suspension of the ongoing restructuring process between AT Ghana and Telecel Ghana, warning that the move could undermine national interests if allowed to proceed without parliamentary oversight.
Addressing a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, October 15, Ranking Member on the Communications Committee, Matthew Nyindam, said the proposed arrangement extends beyond a mere corporate transaction and involves safeguarding a key national asset that has long contributed to Ghana’s socio-economic growth.
“This is not just about selling a company,” Nyindam stressed. “It’s about protecting national institutions that have served Ghana faithfully, trained some of the best professionals in the telecommunications industry, and demonstrated their strategic importance in times of national need.”
He urged the government, policymakers, and industry players to take swift action to ensure that AT Ghana remains under Ghanaian ownership.
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“We must act decisively to keep AT Ghana in Ghanaian hands and ensure it continues to drive our digital and economic future,” he added.
The Minority’s demands include:
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An immediate suspension of the restructuring or consolidation process;
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A comprehensive parliamentary inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the transaction;
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Full disclosure of all agreements, correspondence, and supporting documents;
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Publication of transactional advice and recommendations from AFROTEX/Rektron regarding the “highest and best use” of AT Ghana; and
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A thorough financial assessment of AT Ghana to determine its debt position and address issues that have previously disrupted services.
Nyindam emphasized that such a crucial national decision cannot be made without legislative involvement.
“Any decision concerning the future of AT Ghana must be subjected to full parliamentary scrutiny,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has dismissed reports that the restructuring constitutes a merger or acquisition.
Speaking at a press briefing on September 5, he clarified that the development falls under a “force majeure” condition.
“This is not a merger, and it is not an acquisition,” the Minister explained. “We are responding to a force majeure situation, and the transaction advisor’s recommendations will guide government’s next steps.”
The Ministry had earlier indicated that the move aims to create a stronger, more resilient telecommunications entity by combining AT Ghana and Telecel Ghana. Mr. George assured staff and customers that there would be no job losses and that consumer interests would remain protected.
Despite these assurances, the Minority insists that transparency and accountability must underpin every decision regarding AT Ghana’s future, warning that anything less could endanger a vital national institution.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem