Concerned members of organized labour oppose proposed nationwide strike over galamsey

A group of concerned members of Organized Labour has expressed strong reservations about the proposed nationwide strike and demonstration called by their leadership to compel the government to declare a state of emergency over illegal mining (galamsey).

As cording to the group, the National leadership of Organized Labour unilaterally declared the industrial action without engaging local chapters for their views

This unilateral decision they noted raises questions as most of their local members have been sidelined in discussions around the strike.

In a press statement on Monday, October 7, 2024, the group stated that while they acknowledge the severity of the galamsey issue, they believe the current approach is misguided and politically motivated.

The concerned members alleged that the leadership of Organized Labour, largely comprised of surrogates of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), is exploiting the issue to score political points.

A leading member of the group, and a member of the Technical University Teachers Association TUTAG, Dr Solomon Forkuo Kwarteng criticized the leadership’s failure to consult the broader membership before threatening a nationwide strike and demonstration, just two months before crucial presidential and parliamentary elections.

They warned that such actions could lead to chaos, unrest, and a further deterioration of the political climate.

The concerned members called on their leadership to suspend strike plans, engage in genuine dialogue with the government, and respect the views of the broader membership.

They urged Organized Labour to focus on addressing workers’ concerns rather than pursuing partisan agendas.

“Galamsey is a national issue requiring a united front, not a tool for political exploitation,” he emphasized.

The group concluded by advocating for a peaceful, responsible, and non-partisan approach to tackling the galamsey menace, prioritizing national unity over political division.