The Mortuary Workers Association of Ghana (MOWAG) has issued a warning of a nationwide strike set for November unless the government addresses their long-standing demands. Despite recently suspending industrial action, the association claims that key grievances have yet to be resolved, leaving members frustrated and determined to lay down their tools if conditions do not improve.
MOWAG is advocating for urgent enhancements in working conditions, which include better wages, a safer working environment, and essential personal protective equipment (PPE). These demands have been on the table since 2019, yet the government’s response has been deemed insufficient by the association, further fueling their resolve to strike.
In an interview with Citi News, General Secretary Richard Kofi Jordan expressed the group’s discontent over the government’s lack of action. He accused officials of employing tactics to delay negotiations by requesting data that he believes will not address the core issues at hand. “We feel this is an attempt to subvert our demands,” he stated, highlighting the sacrifices mortuary workers have made while enduring challenging and unsafe working conditions.
Jordan emphasized that the option to strike is their last resort to compel the government to take their concerns seriously. “We cannot strike in the middle of the month, so we are planning for the end of this month or the first week of November,” he explained. He assured the public that they will communicate their final decision clearly if their demands remain unmet.
As the deadline approaches, MOWAG remains firm in its stance. Jordan reiterated that providing the requested data does not negate the urgency of their demands, insisting that without meaningful action from the government, a strike is inevitable. “We will surely strike if what we are asking for is not met within this month,” he warned, signaling a critical moment for mortuary workers across the nation.
