Labour expert and consultant Austine Gamey has raised concerns about the growing number of labour grievances in Ghana, warning that the country could face mass industrial action if the government fails to address the escalating issues.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Tuesday, he highlighted the widespread dissatisfaction among unions and the potential for a significant wave of strikes across various sectors.

Mr Gamey cautioned that the situation is dire, with many unions facing similar unresolved grievances.

“There are many labour unions that have similar grievances. If they all want to go on strike, you’ll have about 20 different unions on strike,” he said.

He stressed that the current economic challenges are making it difficult for workers to bear the brunt of the government’s inaction.

He also noted that the government’s economic mismanagement has compounded the situation, with workers feeling the strain of the financial crisis. “

The country is choked with terrible mismanagement, and we have a haircut on our hands. The economic circumstance is staring at our faces,” Mr Gamey said.

The labour consultant expressed frustration over the absence of meaningful engagement between the government and labour unions, particularly in light of the upcoming elections.

He pointed out that many government officials, who are also Members of Parliament, are preoccupied with election campaigns, making it difficult to address labour concerns.

“Most of the people who are supposed to be negotiating have jumped into the bush to campaign, and they are not available. The Minister of Finance and other deputies are all MPs, so they are not there to negotiate,” Mr Gamey observed.

He warned that the political transition, whether a continuation or a change in leadership, could exacerbate the situation, leaving workers without guarantees that their issues will be addressed.

“There is no guarantee, particularly now, that there will definitely be a certain change of government. Whether it’s Dr Bawumia, John Mahama, or Alan Kyerematen, workers fear being told to wait three to six months after the elections,” he explained.

He stressed that workers cannot afford further delays in addressing their concerns. “They cannot bear it,” Mr Gamey concluded, stating the need for immediate government action.