The Minority Caucus on Employment, Labour Relations and Pensions has marked May Day with sharp criticism of the government, accusing it of systematically eroding workers’ rights through mass dismissals and weakened labour protections.
In a statement titled “Defending Workers’ Rights and Dignity,” Ranking Member Mavis Nkansah-Boadu said this year’s celebration is overshadowed by what she called an “onslaught against decent jobs.”
“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 accused the government of suppressing organised labour by co-opting key union leaders into political roles, thereby muting resistance from civil society and labour unions.
“Workers’ rights are being stripped away before our eyes,” she said.
“The silence from many labour leaders is not by accident, it’s the result of political appointments that have compromised their independence.”
The statement also took aim at the recent adjustment to the national minimum wage, describing it as a betrayal of inclusive negotiation.
“The minimum wage increase was disappointing and fell far short of expectations. It’s clear the government sidelined proper consultation in favour of a unilateral decision,” she said.
Calling for renewed worker solidarity, the Minority urged trade unions and employees across sectors to speak out and demand change.
“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 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”.
