Mr. Abraham Koomson, Secretary General of the Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL), recently voiced his distress regarding what he perceives as the insensitivity of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia towards the difficulties faced by Ghanaian workers, especially in the public sector. Speaking in Tema, Koomson articulated the dire economic situation in which many workers find themselves, noting that their salaries are increasingly inadequate due to a combination of poor governance and the rising cost of living. He emphasized that the struggles of workers seem to go unnoticed by the government, stating, “Ghanaian workers are enduring economic hardships while the government is indifferent to their struggles.” He expressed a sense of duty to advocate for workers, highlighting the various grievances that have arisen under the current administration.
Further criticizing the administration, Koomson pointed to the detrimental economic impact of governmental policies, suggesting that the president and vice president have shifted blame instead of taking responsibility for the hardships they have inflicted on citizens. He condemned the government for failing to fulfill its obligations to elderly citizens who relied on government bonds as safe investments. He expressed disbelief that in contemporary Ghana, people are forced to protest for access to their investments, labeling the current regime as “the most clueless government of all time in Ghana’s history.” He also raised concerns about the implications of these delayed payments, noting that the trust people once had in government securities as secure investments has been severely compromised.
The GFL Secretary General also critiqued the Ministry of Finance for celebrating extensions to debt repayment deadlines instead of addressing the underlying economic issues. Koomson deemed such celebrations disgraceful and counterproductive, asserting that merely extending repayment deadlines does not signify progress for a country that has proclaimed itself “beyond aid.” He urged the ministry to confront the economic challenges head-on instead of engaging in what he perceives as futile celebrations of debt management strategies. This reveals a broader dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the economy and its failure to take significant steps toward recovery and stability.
On the topic of labor unions, Koomson specifically addressed President Akufo-Addo’s adverse reactions to their opposition regarding the proposed sale of four SSNIT hotels. He suggested that the government’s anger towards labor leaders was unwarranted, particularly given the recent profitability of the hotels, which he claimed transformed quickly after plans for their sale were halted. He questioned the rationale behind the president’s anger when the hotels have proven to be lucrative, implying that the government’s prior narrative concerning their unprofitability was perhaps misleading or strategically crafted to facilitate the sale.
Koomson’s comments serve as a broader indictment of the current administration and its approach to governance. He characterized the leadership style of President Akufo-Addo and Vice President Bawumia as authoritarian, drawing a stark comparison to the late Jerry John Rawlings, whose leadership, despite its military origins, was characterized by a level of respect towards labor unions. Koomson contrasted the accessibility of Rawlings with the apparent disdain he perceives from the current leadership. He expressed disappointment at what he labeled a dictatorial approach from those in power, suggesting that this neglect of workers and labor representatives reflects a broader disregard for democratic practices and open communication.
In conclusion, Koomson’s criticisms highlight the precarious situation of Ghanaian workers amidst economic turmoil and heightened governmental indifference. His assertions underscore the urgent need for the government to reevaluate its policies and priorities concerning workers’ rights and financial accountability. By calling out the troubling dynamics of power and responsibility, Koomson advocates for a renewed focus on the welfare of ordinary citizens, emphasizing that the government must acknowledge and resolve the grievances of its workforce. His speech served not only as a rallying cry for better treatment of workers but also as a reflection of the broader societal frustrations regarding economic management and accountability in Ghana.
