Dr. Fred Oduro, a renowned governance expert, has stated that election years present the most opportune times for unions to demand better conditions for their members and society at large.
Speaking on ABC News GH on Monday, September 16, 2024, he emphasized that “Election year presents the best possible times for unions agitate for better conditions of societies.
“In an election year the government in power wants to look good. And Labour agitation can never be deemed as good for government in Power.”
His remarks come amid a wave of nationwide strikes, with unions across various sectors demanding improved wages, working conditions, and action on issues such as the sale of public assets.
In 2024, Ghana has seen a surge in labour unrest, from education to healthcare, and public administration.
Labour unions, growing increasingly vocal, have been at odds with the government over unaddressed grievances. For instance, the Trades Union Congress has threatened a nationwide strike over the government’s failure to address the galamsey crisis, while a coalition of 10 unions protested the sale of SSNIT’s assets, causing major disruptions in public services.
Other significant strikes include those by CLOGSAG, the National Identification Authority, and various teacher unions like GNAT and NAGRAT, all of whom have cited delayed payments and poor working conditions.
As the December elections approach, these strikes are placing immense pressure on the government to act.
The timing of the unrest has further complicated the political landscape, with the governance expert noting that how the government handles these crises could greatly influence their electoral prospects.
The coming weeks may see the government facing even more challenges, as they balance governance with maintaining their political standing amidst increasing dissatisfaction from the workforce.
In other development, the Senior Staff Association of Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG) has announced a nationwide strike set to begin on Monday, September 16, 2024.
This decision follows what the association describes as the government’s failure to meet their long-standing demands for improved working conditions.
Despite multiple protests and negotiations, the government has yet to implement previously agreed-upon measures, prompting the association to take this drastic step.
National Chairman George Ansong, in a statement released on September 13, underscored the association’s frustration, citing unfulfilled promises as a key factor driving the strike.
