Organised Labour has called off its planned strike, which was set to take place on Thursday, October 10, 2024, in protest of the government’s failure to address the growing issue of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
This decision follows the refusal of several unions within Organised Labour to participate in the strike, citing their obligation to continue providing essential public services.
At an emergency meeting on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, TUC Secretary-General, Joshua Ansah, announced the suspension of the strike. In a press release, Organised Labour explained that after discussions with the government and the Ghana Employers’ Association (GEA), the government had committed to implementing enhanced and time-bound measures to address their concerns and combat illegal mining.
“We are urging all workers to report to work on October 10, 2024, and beyond. Labour will closely monitor the implementation of these measures, and the government will hear from us if it fails to deliver,” the statement read.
The emergency meeting allowed union leaders to reassess the situation following government assurances that it would intensify efforts to tackle illegal mining, including ramping up the Ghana Armed Forces-led “Operation Halt” to combat mining in forest reserves.
In a media briefing, Joshua Ansah explained that the decision to suspend the strike was made to give Labour the opportunity to observe the government’s follow-through on its promises.
The strike had gained the backing of several unions and was intended to pressure the government into taking decisive action against *galamsey*. Organised Labour had initially planned an indefinite strike to compel the government to declare a state of emergency and escalate efforts to address the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining.
Despite support from major unions, such as the Public Utility Workers Union and the General Agricultural Workers Union, key groups like the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), GPRTU, and the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) had withdrawn, opting to continue delivering essential healthcare services.
The suspension of the strike came as a surprise to many, as union leaders had been firm in their stance during prior meetings and public statements.
Organised Labour reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring the government’s actions and advocating for workers’ rights, particularly in addressing the illegal mining crisis.
Following this announcement, President Akufo-Addo met with Organised Labour leadership on October 3, 2024, to discuss solutions to the concerns raised. During the meeting, the government agreed to collaborate with Labour and other stakeholders to tackle illegal mining, including plans to revoke the Environmental Protection Law, specifically the Mining and Forest Reserve Regulation 2023, LI 2462, when Parliament reconvenes in October.
The discussions also led to a decision for the Attorney General to work with the Chief Justice in setting up specialized courts for the swift prosecution of illegal mining cases. Additionally, the government endorsed a call for all presidential candidates to sign a pact committing to the fight against illegal mining.
