Legal practitioner, Austin Kwabena Brako-Powers, is calling on the government to be truthful to the general public and staff of the Volta Aluminium Company (VALCO) about its decision to offload 70% of its control.
He believes the debate about whether the company is up for sale or not is unnecessary, since the strategic investor taking over 70% equity will effectively control the aluminium smelter.
His comments follow claims by a section of the public and staff of the Company, that the State-owned industry has been earmarked for sale, with the workers demonstrating against the move on Monday, July 27, 2026.
The workers, who blocked the main entrance to the plant in Tema, expressed worry about job security and want transparency in the government’s plans. They alleged the Company is being sold to ARK Holdings, which belongs to Ibrahim Mahama, brother of the President Mahama.
Local Union Chairman, Samuel Watchman Agyeman, has decried what he described as leadership ignoring workers on developments concerning the company, despite raising concerns since January this year.
Speaking on TV3’s BigIssue segment on the NewDay morning show on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, Brako-Powers noted that it would be in the Government’s interest to let the workers and the general public know the reality, rather than making attempts to hide it.
“If you’re seeking to offload 70% of your equity control in a company, what is it? Is it not sale?” he asked, expressing the need to be open about the development.
“Are you pampering somebody? You need to communicate to Ghanaians. Tell the people the reality,” he added, insisting there is no need to hide anything from someone.
“You’re offloading 70% of your equity control of the company and you’ll retain 30%. We must be able to situate the conversation. Let’s be upfront with the people in order to avoid disappointment tomorrow,” he added.
On the fear of job losses, Mr. Brako-Powers said it is the reality. “Let’s streamline the conversation and point out what needs to be pointed out, there will be job losses. Let’s tell the people.”
‘All is not well with VALCO, but it’s not for sale’ – VRA Board Member
