Organized Labor has called off its indefinite strike of public sector workers following the termination of the sale of SSNIT’s 60 percent stake in four hotels. The decision came after the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) sent a letter confirming the halt on the same day the strike began.
Secretary-General of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), Dr. Yaw Baah, announced the end of the strike, stating that SSNIT had terminated the sale process. However, Dr. Baah emphasized that Organized Labor has given SSNIT one month to address all issues related to pensions, ensuring the long-term stability of workers’ benefits.
Last Friday, SSNIT declared the termination of its plan to sell a 60 percent stake in four hotels just hours after Rock City Hotel, the prospective buyer, withdrew its proposal. This announcement came as a relief to many public sector workers who had shown strong support for the strike.
Widespread Support for the Strike
The strike received backing from various labor unions, each issuing directives to their members to adhere to the industrial action. The unions included the Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG), the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), the Ghana Private Road Transport Union of TUC Ghana (GPRTU), and numerous teacher unions such as the Ghana National Association of Teachers, the National Association of Graduate Teachers, and the Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU).
In addition, the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) took a firmer stance, calling for the dissolution of the SSNIT Board and the resignation of top management at the pension fund.
Moving Forward
The conclusion of the strike marks a significant victory for public sector workers and emphasizes the power of collective action. With SSNIT given a month to resolve pension-related issues, Organized Labor remains vigilant in ensuring that workers’ rights and benefits are protected.
This development highlights the critical role that labor unions play in advocating for workers’ rights and the importance of responsive governance in addressing their concerns. The termination of the hotel sale and the end of the strike are steps toward fostering trust and cooperation between public sector workers and SSNIT.
Source: Graphic Online
