The Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) has declared an indefinite nationwide strike, effective Monday, January 19, 2026, over the government’s failure to pay outstanding salary arrears owed to its members.

In a notice of intended industrial action addressed to the National Labour Commission and dated January 12, 2026, JUSAG said the decision follows prolonged engagements with the Ministry of Finance and other government authorities which have failed to yield results.

According to the association, the President approved a 10 per cent base pay increase for Judicial Service staff for 2025, effective January 1, 2025, in line with adjustments granted to other public sector workers. However, while other workers benefitted from the adjustment in full, JUSAG noted that implementation for its members was delayed.

The association explained that payment of the related allowances was only effected in September 2025, with assurances from government that the remaining arrears covering January to August 2025 would be paid later within the 2025 fiscal year.

JUSAG said despite several follow-ups and written assurances, the eight months’ salary arrears remain unpaid. A letter sent to the Judicial Council in December 2025 requesting payment of the arrears, the association noted, did not result in any action, even after management gave further assurances.

Describing the situation as unbearable, JUSAG stressed that its members, who serve within the Judiciary as the third arm of government, play a critical role in maintaining law, order and stability in the country.

“The festive month of December was one of the most difficult moments for staff who were very expectant of receiving the much-anticipated eight months’ arrears, only to be met with shock and disappointment,” the statement said.

Following an emergency meeting, the National Executive Council of JUSAG resolved to embark on an indefinite strike until the full payment of the eight months’ salary arrears from January to August 2025 is made.

The notice was signed by the National President of JUSAG, Samuel Afotey Otu, and copied to the Chief Justice, the Judicial Secretary, the Ministers of Finance and Employment and Labour Relations, as well as other key stakeholders within the Judicial Service.

JUSAG has formally notified the National Labour Commission of its decision, indicating that the strike action will remain in force until its demands are fully met.