I had to run `setup build` and `setup install` before it worked properly for me.
No real compilation necessary since it's python.
Yes we should be cautious of using electron cash, and in general avoid trusting any software to handle our money safely.
You should follow electrum's advice here
https://electrum.org/bcc2.txtand transfer your BTC elsewhere before loading your wallet into electron cash.
EDIT:
I also attempted to run the packaging script several times, as it says to in the ReadMe.
It didn't complete, but may have done something necessary before failing.