GFL applauds Mahama's government for proactive engagement with Labour Unions

The Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL) at the weekend commended the government of President John Dramani Mahama for the proactive engagement with labour unions, resulting in successful negotiations for the 2025 base pay.

“This achievement is notable, as it was reached without the usual agitation that characterized the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) government's interactions with labour unions,” Mr. Abraham Koomson, GFL Secretary-General, stated during an interaction with the media in Tema.

He said the government's willingness to engage with labour unions through the tripartite committee was instrumental in reaching a mutually beneficial agreement.

“This collaborative approach has helped to build trust and foster a positive relationship between the government and labour unions,” Mr. Koomson, a Seasoned Unionist stated.

He said the successful negotiation of the 2025 base pay is a significant milestone, as it demonstrates the government's commitment to improving the welfare of workers.

The GFL has acknowledged the government's efforts to create a more collaborative and inclusive environment for labour negotiations.

The GFL Secretary-General noted, “The government's willingness to listen to our concerns and work with us to find solutions has been a game-changer. We are committed to continuing this collaborative approach to ensure that the interests of workers are protected and promoted.”

He said the successful negotiation of the 2025 base pay is a testament to the power of collaborative governance and social dialogue.

He stressed that GFL and other labour union leaders agreed on the government’s decision to increase salaries by 10%, acknowledging the difficult economic conditions the country faces.

Mr. Koomson said that given the extent of economic mismanagement by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia's administration, he had anticipated no salary increment at all.

“Therefore, the 10% increase, while modest, is still a positive step,” Mr. Koomson stated.

The National Tripartite Committee (NTC) announced a 10% rise in Ghana’s National Daily Minimum Wage (NDMW) for 2025, raising the new rate to GH₵19.97.

This decision was finalized at a meeting in Accra on Thursday, February 20, 2025.

The directive requires all establishments, institutions, and organizations to comply.

The wage adjustment is part of broader efforts to ensure fair compensation for workers while maintaining economic stability and business sustainability.

Mr Koomson noted that both the Finance Minister and the Minister of Employment would have preferred a higher salary increment but were constrained by the current economic realities.

He criticized the previous government for reckless spending, arguing that their financial mismanagement is now affecting the entire nation.

“Labour unions observed how the past government squandered public funds, yet many remained silent. Now, we are all facing the consequences,” Mr Koomson stated.

He also supported President Mahama’s assertion that the country’s financial state resembles a “crime scene,” attributing the crisis to excessive and wasteful expenditures by the former administration.

The government has committed to ensuring fair compensation for public sector employees while balancing economic realities. The wage adjustment reflects the government's efforts to maintain economic stability and business sustainability.