Professor Ransford Gyampo, President of the University of Ghana chapter of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), has strongly criticised the Presidency’s invitation to the leadership of Organised Labour for discussions on their planned strike against illegal mining, or galamsey, labelling it as “unnecessary and insincere.”
Organised Labour declared an indefinite strike starting Tuesday, October 1, in protest against the government’s failure to address their demands.
These include an outright ban on all forms of mining and the declaration of a state of emergency to combat galamsey.
During an interview on Accra-based Citi FM’s on Thursday, October 3, Prof. Gyampo accused the government of insincerity and disrespect in its dealings with Organised Labour.
He expressed disappointment with the government’s approach, describing it as “predictable, unnecessary, and insincere.”
“Whenever Labour reaches an agreement with the government, and for some reason they can’t meet the terms, they don’t even have the courtesy to inform us. It’s completely unproductive, rather than addressing the real issues, they call us for pointless discussions. This approach is both unnecessary and insincere” he stated.
Prof. Gyampo also defended Organised Labour’s decision to give a week’s notice before the indefinite strike on October 10, explaining that it was necessary to allow other unions within the organization to prepare and follow proper procedures.
“Some people don’t understand why the strike wasn’t immediate, but Organised Labour comprises multiple unions. It’s important that we notify them properly and ensure due process is followed before embarking on such a major action. That’s why we’ve allowed a one-week window” he added.
Source: Adomonline
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