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Organised Labour has explained its decision to call off the nationwide strike planned for October 10, which was aimed at pressuring the government to take stronger action against illegal mining, or “galamsey,” that continues to damage Ghana’s environment. The leadership announced on October 9, just a day before the strike, that the action would be suspended.
The strike had received widespread support from various sectors, with many Ghanaians backing the demand for tougher measures to curb the environmental and social damage caused by galamsey. The decision to call off the strike, however, has sparked criticism, with some accusing Organised Labour of caving to external pressure or undermining the fight against illegal mining.
Many supporters had viewed the strike as a vital tool to hold the government accountable and push for immediate action. In response to the backlash, Bernard Owusu, Chairman of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), defended the move, explaining that the suspension was a calculated step rather than a sign of weakness.
“We sent demands to the government, and the government has made some provisions. It will be prudent, as right-thinking people, to rescind that decision because the government has met some of our demands,” Owusu said. He further clarified that this pause gives them the opportunity to monitor the government’s actions moving forward.
Owusu emphasized that Organised Labour is still ready to resume the strike or adopt other forms of protest if the government fails to address the issues. “We have given an ultimatum, and the government has come back to us… We don’t think there’s any disappointment here. I believe that we have to be even applauded,” he concluded.
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