A coalition of aggrieved labour unions has launched a scathing attack on the leadership of Organised Labour, accusing it of weakness, a lack of transparency, and failing to represent the interests of the average Ghanaian worker in the critical 2026 Base Pay Negotiations with the government.
In a strongly-worded press statement, the dissenting unions expressed profound disappointment with the negotiation process, which they claim began with a "meagre" initial proposal of 20% from Labour, only to be reduced to 15% on the very first day. This, they argue, set a weak precedent for the talks.
The government’s response has been described as equally disheartening. The unions highlighted that "Government’s insulting offer of 2.5% later adjusted to 5% shows a complete lack of empathy and respect for the sacrifices of public sector workers" who deliver essential services amidst a harsh economic climate of high utility tariffs, excessive taxes, and a rising cost of living.
The statement draws a direct parallel to the previous year's negotiations, recalling how Organised Labour "hurriedly and shamefully accepted a 10% base pay increase for 2025." Shortly after that agreement, the government sanctioned a 21% increase in utility tariffs, further eroding the real income of workers.
"This raises the big question: Is history about to repeat itself?" the unions queried, pointing to a pattern they find unacceptable.
They maintain that, given the current economic realities, a fair and credible negotiation should have begun with a demand of nothing less than 50%. The unions argue that the continuous decline in workers' purchasing power necessitates a much more aggressive opening position.
Beyond the numbers, the aggrieved unions raised serious procedural concerns. They accused the leadership of Organised Labour of failing to properly consult with the various member unions before settling on its initial 20% proposal.
"How can Organised Labour present a proposal to the government for the 2026 Base Pay Negotiations without input from other unions and associations, or even a single meeting among all stakeholders?" the statement asked, highlighting a significant erosion of confidence in the process.
The lack of inclusivity was compounded by an unusual level of secrecy. The unions noted with alarm that members of the media were prevented from covering the post-negotiation briefings—a sharp departure from established practice.
"Such deliberate secrecy raises legitimate concerns about transparency and accountability," the statement read. "If there is nothing to hide, why stop the media from reporting on proceedings? Workers have every right to know what is being negotiated on their behalf."
The unions also reminded all parties that the Base Pay is not just a short-term concern. It directly affects the computation of workers' Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) benefits after retirement, meaning any poor agreement has long-term consequences for the welfare of workers beyond their active service.
Issuing a stern warning, the coalition stated it has "credible information suggesting that the outcome of the 2026 Base Pay Negotiations may not favour labour." Should this be the case, they vowed to "reject the outcome and take all necessary steps to protect the interests of our members against both the government and the leadership of Organised Labour."
The statement concludes by calling on Organised Labour's leadership to act in the best interest of workers and not to compromise, while also urging the government to return to the table with a realistic offer.
"Ghanaian workers deserve a living wage and transparent representation — not a leadership that appears to be dancing to the tune of the government," the unions declared.
The statement was signed by leaders from several unions, including the Senior Staff Association - Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG), the Teachers and Educational Workers' Union (TEWU), and the Technical University Administrators Association of Ghana (TUAAG), representing a significant bloc of discontent within the labour movement.
Signed:
· Stephen Desu, Founder, Innovative Teachers
· Isaac Donkoh, Immediate Past National Chairman, SSA-UoG
· Harruna Rafik, Chairman, SSA-UoG, UG-Korle Bu Branch
· Daniel Kweku Obo Manuel, Chairman, SSA-UoG, UniMAC Branch
· Philip Kweku Odei, Vice Chairman, SSA-UoG, UG-Legon Branch
· Benjamin Nkumash, Chairman, TEWU of TUC, UG Branch
· Gilbert Ayitey, Chairman, TUAAG, ATU Branch