Organised Labour has called off its much-anticipated nationwide strike, originally scheduled for Thursday, October 10, 2024.
The decision was made following an emergency meeting on Wednesday, October 9, where union leaders evaluated recent developments and agreed to suspend the industrial action.
The suspension comes after the government provided assurances that it is stepping up efforts to combat illegal mining (galamsey), including enhancing the “Operation Halt” initiative, led by the Ghana Armed Forces, to protect forest reserves from further environmental degradation.
Joshua Ansah, Secretary General of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), announced at a media briefing that Labour would pause the strike to observe the government’s implementation of these measures. The strike had been organized to pressure the government into declaring a state of emergency over the environmental destruction caused by galamsey.
While the strike had gained support from key unions like the Public Utility Workers Union and the General Agricultural Workers Union, the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) and the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) had distanced themselves, choosing to continue providing essential services.
The decision to suspend the strike surprised many, as unions had previously expressed firm resolve to proceed. Organised Labour emphasized that it would continue monitoring the situation and remain committed to protecting workers’ rights and addressing the illegal mining crisis.
