Ghana Medical Association suspends strike as SSNIT terminates hotel sale

The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has suspended its planned industrial action after the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) formally terminated plans to sell a majority stake in four hotels.

In a statement issued on July 15, GMA President Dr. Frank Serebour and General Secretary Dr. Richard Selormey called off the withdrawal of healthcare services following an emergency meeting of organized labour unions.

The meeting was convened after SSNIT formally communicated to labour leaders that it was cancelling the proposed sale of 60% shares in the hotels, satisfying their main demand.

"Organized Labour subsequently decided to suspend the industrial action with immediate effect...NEC suspends with immediate effect, the earlier issued roadmap for industrial action and directs that all members return to post," the GMA statement said in part.

It had announced plans to begin withdrawing services from July 15, including halting outpatient clinics and suspending emergency care nationwide.

A total shutdown of Ghana's health sector was scheduled for July 22 if SSNIT fails to terminate negotiations over the controversial sale.

Following the threats of strike, Rock City Hotel owned by Agric Minister Bryan Acheampong, whose selection was accused of a conflict of interest, withdrew its bid citing the negativity.