Labour Minister Dr. Rashid Pelpuo has appealed to the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) to reconsider their ongoing nationwide strike, emphasizing the need for cooperation with the new administration.
Speaking on PM Express, the Minister, who also serves as Member of Parliament for Wa Central, expressed disappointment over the strike, which began after failed negotiations with the Ministry of Health.
“We are more than shocked. We are disturbed. We are worried that they went on strike without engaging us first,” Dr. Pelpuo said.
According to the Minister, the union’s decision appears disconnected from the current leadership’s willingness to engage.
“If the negotiations began one or two years ago, they must recognise that this is a new administration,” he emphasized.
Dr. Pelpuo noted that the government is ready to rebuild trust with labour unions, including the GRNMA, and work towards a stable economy and a supportive labour environment.
“We are doing everything we can to ensure we maintain economic stability, societal peace, and full cooperation from workers,” he added.
The strike, which began on Monday, stems from a disagreement over the government’s request to delay the implementation of new conditions of service until 2026—a proposal the GRNMA has firmly rejected.
Dr. Pelpuo also disclosed that he was not given the opportunity to meet with GRNMA leadership before the industrial action commenced.
“I had a discussion with the president of the association and expressed my concern that there was no opportunity for dialogue before the strike,” he explained.
The Labour Minister believes early engagement could have changed the course of events and is calling on the GRNMA to reconsider their stance.
Dr. Pelpuo emphasized that the government remains open to negotiation and urged the nurses and midwives to choose dialogue over disruption, adding that they are working to remain the door open.
