Ghanaian workers commit to peace ahead of Election 2012

Workers in the Ashanti region have committed themselves to contribute to ensuring a peaceful election in December, as they joined others in the country and the world over to celebrate May Day.

Hundreds of jubilant workers in both the public and private sectors converged at the Jubilee Park in Kumasi for the regional rally to commemorate the day.

Organized labour chose the theme: “Election 2012, the Role of Workers in Securing Peaceful and Fair Elections”, to join in the national crusade for a violent-free electioneering.

Regional Minister, Dr. Kwaku Agyemang-Mensah enjoined workers' organizations to help maintain the nation's peace for accelerated development.

The theme, he noted “should remind all workers of the need to refrain from issues which may degenerate into confrontation and avoidable conflicts, particularly during this period, when we are feverishly preparing for the general elections”.

According to the Minister, “any tendency that would disturb the peace, stability and progress of the nation must be avoided. It is important therefore for workers to dialogue with management in their demands rather than resorting to strikes and other violent means”.

In the run-up to the December poll, series of events have been lined up by organized labour to sensitize members on their contribution to national development.

Simon Baaba Alootey, Ashanti Regional Industrial Relations Officer of the Industrial and Commercial Workers Union (ICU) told Luv News the labour organizations will continue to play a meaningful role in educating members and acquire knowledge to be better informed in contributing to national development.

Some workers who spoke to Luv News however say their commitment to a peaceful election should be complimented with fair and equitable wages and working conditions.

Story by Kofi Adu Domfeh/Luv Fm/Ghana