Lessons and way forward

The bottom line for consumers is that privatisation did not deliver reliable power, reasonable rates, or responsible management. Instead, they have faced many of the same issues that plague public utilities — load shedding, line losses, billing disputes — plus new frustrations like feeling powerless against a monopoly.

This experience holds important lessons for the wider power sector privatization agenda. As the government prepares to offload FESCO, GEPCO, IESCO and others from its portfolio, that the country cannot afford to repeat. To ensure that future transactions genuinely serve consumers and the economy, the following safeguards must be made non-negotiable in all upcoming........

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