Accra: The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has condemned 'draconian measures' by the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG) against nurses and midwives who participated in a recent industrial action. The GRNMA has vowed to take decisive action, including further strikes, if CHAG proceeds with its intended sanctions.
According to Ghana News Agency, the GRNMA's condemnation was detailed in a press statement signed by President Mrs. Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo and General Secretary Dr. David Tenkorang-Twum. The statement highlighted that the GRNMA's attention was drawn to a CHAG letter dated June 30, 2025, titled 'REQUEST FOR LIST OF STAFF,' which was widely distributed to CHAG member facilities. The GRNMA alleged that the circular aimed to gather data on striking nurses and midwives with punitive intentions.
CHAG's proposed measures, as outlined by the GRNMA, include the reposting of newly posted staff who participated in the strike, demotion of staff in management positions, removal of heads of departments who took part in the strike, non-payment of May allowances for participants, withholding of special benefits like responsibility allowance, accommodation, and vehicle, delaying promotions, and instructing the Controller and Accountant General's Department to withhold one week's salary for those on the Government of Ghana payroll who participated in the strike.
The GRNMA condemned these measures, stating they undermine the right to peaceful assembly and protest. The Association emphasized that all nurses and midwives in CHAG facilities are paid by the government, suggesting a disregard for their welfare by CHAG. The GRNMA further asserted that Section 10 (d) of the Labour Act, 2003 (ACT 651), grants workers the right to join a Trade Union and participate in its activities, including industrial action. They labelled any punishment for participating in a collective action as 'unfair labour practice.'
The GRNMA also highlighted the employer's responsibility, as per the law, to address the concerns of workers and stressed that the law is fair to all parties. The GRNMA assured nurses and midwives in CHAG facilities that leadership would pursue necessary legal actions if CHAG acted on its decision regarding the industrial action. The Association expressed its readiness to use every legitimate means, including further strikes, to support their colleagues.
The Association urged nurses and midwives in CHAG facilities to remain calm and continue their duties, as leadership fights for the implementation of their Collective Agreement and protection of their rights as workers.
