The Trades Union Congress (TUC) of Ghana, the largest labour organization representing a significant portion of the country’s workforce, has elected Bernard Owusu as its new National Chairman for the next four years.
This decision was made during the TUC’s 12th Quadrennial Congress held in the Central region.
The Quadrennial Congress is a crucial event for the TUC, where delegates gather to review and establish policies and strategic directions for the next four years. The agenda includes adopting resolutions on critical labour issues such as wage policies, workers’ rights, social protection, and industrial relations.
This year’s Congress was particularly notable for the presence of the President and other key stakeholders, who addressed the irregularities facing the union and advocated for improved conditions of service for the working and pension class under the union’s jurisdiction.
A key function of the Quadrennial Congress is the election of national leaders, including the Secretary-General, Deputy Secretary-General, and Chairman. These positions are filled through a secret ballot process, reflecting the democratic ethos of the TUC.
The elected leaders will serve a four-year term, during which they will guide the TUC’s activities and represent the interests of workers.
In all, 511 delegates cast their votes to elect their leaders. Results of the elections affirmed the ticket of Bernard Owusu as the Chairman-elect of the TUC, with Salamatu Braimah becoming the Vice Chairperson with 341 votes. Salamatu Mahama was also adjudged as the winner for the 2nd Vice National Chairman position, also Kwabena Nyarko Otoo won the Deputy Secretary General with 222 votes.
The TUC Quadrennial Congress is critical to the health and effectiveness of the labour movement in Ghana. It ensures that the organization remains democratic, responsive to the needs of its members, and capable of addressing the challenges facing workers.
The decisions made by Congress have long-term implications for labour relations in the country and the broader socio-economic environment.
