Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Gideon Nicholas Day
Published on 2024-02-02 18:46:48
The protest announced by Anthony Yaw Baah, the Secretary-General of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), during a press conference on Friday, February 2, 2024, signifies growing dissatisfaction with the government’s policies. Baah declared, “Our advice is straightforward. We have advised ourselves that this government is taking us for granted, so we are going to lead massive demonstrations in all the 16 regional capitals of Ghana on 13th February.” This decision comes after a previous ultimatum by the TUC in January 2024, demanding the government to withdraw the Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity consumption above the lifeline before January 31.
Dr. Baah has drawn attention to the impact of such taxes on the less privileged, emphasizing that it is always the poor people in the country, including pensioners, who bear the brunt of these taxes. He stated, “It’s always the poor people in this country, including pensioners, who bear the brunt. Organised Labour, we have come together and our message to the government is very simple, we cannot pay VAT on electricity.”
In response to the impending protests, the government has expressed its willingness to engage in extensive dialogue with Organized Labour and other key stakeholders. The Finance Ministry released a statement on January 30, 2024, acknowledging the concerns raised by the labor groups and outlining plans for collaborative discussions.
The planned protests are a significant indicator of the growing tension between labor groups and the government over economic policies. The concerns raised by the TUC regarding the impact of VAT on electricity consumption on the less privileged and the ultimatum given to the government illustrate the determination of labor groups to stand up for the rights of workers and pensioners.
The announcement of the upcoming protests on February 13th has set the stage for a possible confrontation between the government and labor groups. The demonstrations in all 16 regional capitals of Ghana are expected to be a significant show of strength and unity by the labor groups in their demand for changes in government policies.
It is clear that Organized Labour is prepared to take bold steps to ensure that the concerns of workers and pensioners are heard and addressed by the government. The decision to lead massive nationwide demonstrations indicates the seriousness of the grievances and the resolve of labor groups to push for change.
The government’s willingness to engage in discussions is an essential step towards resolving the escalating tensions between the government and labor groups. Collaborative efforts to address the concerns raised by labor groups can pave the way for constructive dialogue and potential solutions to the issues at hand.
Ultimately, the planned protests and the government’s response signal a critical juncture in the relationship between labor groups and the government. The outcome of the upcoming discussions and the demonstrations will have far-reaching implications for labor rights and economic policies in Ghana. It is a testament to the power of unified action and dialogue in driving meaningful change and addressing the needs of workers and pensioners in the country.
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