The Forum for Development and Accountable Governance (FDAG) has jumped to the defense of Acting CEO of Volta River Authority (VRA) Ing. Edward Obeng -Kenzo dismissing recent allegations made by the New Voter Forum (NVF) .
FDAG, a Civil society organization (CSO), described the allegations as “untrue, unfounded, and misleading.”
In a detailed statement released Thursday February 20, FDAG, a civil society organization committed to promoting good governance and accountability, revealed that its independent investigation found no evidence to support the NVF’s claims.
The allegations, which included accusations of discrimination, procurement infractions, and mismanagement, were described as a “deliberate attempt to discredit Ing. Obeng-Kenzo and the VRA.”
The New Voters Forum(NVF) claimed that Ing. Obeng-Kenzo discriminated against some VRA staff. However, FDAG’s claims its investigations found no evidence to support this.
Nana Kojo Abbam, Senior Research Fellow at FDAG, stated:
“Our engagements with VRA staff revealed that Ing. Obeng-Kenzo has consistently upheld professionalism, fairness, and inclusivity. His leadership is based on merit and capability, not political considerations.”
On allegations of procurement irregularities and financial mismanagement, FDAG’s findings, however, revealed that these claims were baseless.
“The VRA operates under strict financial regulations, consistent with the Public Procurement Act and international standards. Every transaction undergoes rigorous scrutiny and auditing. Ing. Obeng-Kenzo has strengthened financial accountability and ensured transparent contract awards.”
Addressing allegations which sort to blame Ing.Obeng-Kenzo for the controlled spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong Dams in 2023, which displaced residents downstream,FDAG described this allegation as a “gross misrepresentation of the facts.”
“The spillage was an unavoidable safety measure to protect lives and critical infrastructure. Delaying the spill would have risked catastrophic consequences, including a potential dam breach. Thanks to VRA’s proactive measures, no lives were lost.”
FDAG also highlighted the GHS 20 million relief effort coordinated by the VRA, NADMO, and local authorities to support affected communities.
The Civil Society Organization also established that “Ing. Obeng-Kenzo’s leadership style is inclusive and focused on teamwork. His approach to engaging different staff groups separately was to address specific concerns effectively, not to create division.”
Again on the accusation that Ing. Kenzo is a bully,the group found it baseless.
“Such allegations, made without evidence or psychological evaluation, are baseless. Ing. Obeng-Kenzo has over 25 years of experience in Ghana’s power sector, demonstrating discipline, intelligence, and strategic leadership.”
Additionally, on allegation of corruption and cover, FDAG stated that “On the contrary, Ing. Obeng-Kenzo has been a strong advocate for transparency and accountability, implementing reforms to strengthen internal audit controls and enforce procurement best practices.”
The statement concluded that Ing. Obeng-Kenzo’s vision aligns with the Reset Ghana Agenda’s goals of revitalizing the energy sector and ensuring stable power supply.
His expertise in thermal and renewable energy projects makes him a key figure in VRA’s transformation.
FDAG highlighted Ing. Obeng-Kenzo’s significant contributions to Ghana’s energy sector, including: Successful management of thermal and hydroelectric power projects,leadership in renewable energy initiatives like the Kaleo Solar Power Plant and Anwomaso Thermal Power Station.
Also he has played key role in strengthening VRA’s financial oversight and operational efficiency.
“Ing. Obeng-Kenzo’s achievements and contributions to Ghana’s energy sector speak for themselves. His leadership has been instrumental in ensuring the stability and growth of the sector.”
FDAG urged the public to disregard the NVF’s misleading claims and support efforts to strengthen Ghana’s energy sector.
