Organised Labour has justified its decision to call off the nationwide strike that was set for October 10, aimed at pressuring the government to take decisive action against illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, which continues to wreak havoc on Ghana’s environment.
The leadership of Organised Labour announced the suspension on Wednesday, October 9, just a day before the strike was due to commence.
The strike had gained widespread support across various sectors, with many Ghanaians backing the group’s call for stronger measures to combat the environmental and social destruction caused by galamsey.
The group’s decision to withdraw from the strike has sparked significant criticism from some quarters, with many accusing the leadership of bowing to external pressure or compromising the fight against galamsey.
Supporters of the cause had viewed the strike as a crucial move to hold the government accountable and demand urgent action on the issue.
However, Bernard Owusu, Chairman of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), defended the decision, stating that Organised Labour acted in good faith.
According to him, the suspension was not a sign of weakness, but a strategic move to allow the government to address the concerns raised.
Owusu further assured the public that if the government fails to act, Organised Labour would not hesitate to resume its planned strike or adopt other forms of protest to ensure the issue is addressed.
“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 and we think going forward, we have given an ultimatum and the government has come back to us and we think that we can monitor what the government wants to do going forward.
“So I don’t think there is any disappointment here. I believe that we have to be even applauded.”