The Minority Caucus on Employment, Labour Relations and Pensions has marked this year’s May Day with strong criticism of the government, accusing it of systematically undermining workers’ rights through widespread job terminations and the weakening of labour protections.
In a statement titled “Defending Workers’ Rights and Dignity,” Ranking Member Mavis Nkansah-Boadu expressed deep concern over what she described as an “onslaught against decent jobs,” overshadowing the significance of the annual celebration.
“Instead of celebrating progress, we are witnessing a reversal of hard-won labour rights through mass terminations and the dismantling of collective bargaining structures,” she stated.
Nkansah-Boadu further alleged that the government is undermining organised labour by appointing key union leaders to political positions, thereby weakening their ability to act independently and advocate for workers.
“Workers’ rights are being stripped away before our eyes,” she said. “The silence from many labour leaders is not accidental—it is the result of political appointments that have compromised their independence.”
The statement also criticised the recent adjustment to the national minimum wage, calling it a betrayal of inclusive dialogue.
“The minimum wage increase was disappointing and fell far short of expectations. It is clear the government sidelined proper consultation in favour of a unilateral decision,” she noted.
Calling for renewed worker solidarity, the Minority Caucus urged trade unions and employees across all sectors to raise their voices and demand meaningful reform.
“Let the spirit of solidarity echo across the nation. We call on all workers and unions to rise up and defend decent jobs, fair treatment, and the dignity of labour.”
The Minority’s message aligns with the 2025 International Trade Union Confederation’s theme: “Industrialisation, Trade, and Decent Work for Social Justice.”
Nkansah-Boadu concluded with a firm call to action: “It’s time for the government to reverse course. Workers must resist the attacks on their rights and freedoms. Ayekoo to all Ghanaian workers, but the fight for justice is far from over.”
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