The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has begun an indefinite strike today, Thursday, October 10, despite Organised Labour’s decision to suspend its nationwide strike. UTAG’s National Executive Council (NEC) concluded a referendum to support a nationwide ban on mining and prospecting for gold and other minerals in forest reserves, farmlands, and rivers.
In a statement, UTAG revealed that all 15 Member Branches participated in the referendum, with 2,762 members casting votes. Of these, 77.95% voted in favour of the strike, while 21.98% opposed it. Following the referendum, the NEC convened an emergency meeting, invoking Article XIX, Clause 5 of the UTAG Constitution, and unanimously declared an indefinite strike across all branches.
UTAG leadership highlighted the overwhelming support for the strike as a reflection of its members’ “unwavering commitment to protect our environment and livelihoods from the destructive impact of mining activities in ecologically sensitive areas such as forest reserves, farms, and water bodies.”
The association urged all its members to comply with the strike action “until the government formally announces a nationwide ban on mining and prospecting activities in protected areas, including forest reserves, farmlands, and water bodies.”
On Wednesday, Prof. Ransford Gyampo, President of UTAG’s University of Ghana branch, voiced his dissatisfaction with Organised Labour’s decision to suspend the strike, hinting at UTAG’s intent to break ranks.
Organised Labour had affirmed its indefinite strike on Monday, October 7, after President Akufo-Addo met with the group and proposed measures to tackle illegal mining. Labour felt the measures were insufficient and agreed to still go on strike. But on Wednesday, Organised Labour leaders met again and suspended the strike following new government proposals from government.
The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) staged a walkout during Wednesday’s meeting, but it remains unclear if they will follow UTAG’s lead in declaring a strike.
Public reaction on social media has been mixed, with many expressing disappointment in Organised Labour and accusing the group of betraying the people’s trust.
