Salary negotiations between the government and Organised Labour are projected to conclude within the next three weeks.
This timeline was confirmed by the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), which also appealed to labour unions to manage their expectations as discussions advance.
Unions Push for Over 50% Increase
Insiders from Organised Labour have revealed plans to propose a salary increment exceeding 50%, citing perceived economic improvements as justification. This move comes in the wake of a 10% increase approved earlier in the year for more than 700,000 public sector workers under the Single Spine Salary Structure—a figure that union leaders swiftly dismissed as grossly insufficient.
Despite President John Mahama’s call for patience, pressure continues to mount from the labour front for a more substantial adjustment.
FWSC Cautions Against Unreasonable Demands
Dr. Smith Graham, CEO of the FWSC, acknowledged the ongoing public discussion around the unions’ 50% demand but emphasized that no formal proposal has been submitted yet. He stressed the importance of dialogue and consensus in the negotiation process.
“We will negotiate and reach a consensus based on what is officially presented. By the end of the month, we expect to conclude,” Dr. Graham stated, reiterating the Commission’s commitment to a fair and reasoned outcome.
Government Calls for Consideration of Economic Realities
The Minister for Labour, Employment and Jobs, Dr. Rashid Pelpuo, also urged unions to consider the broader economic context in their demands. He pointed to current inflation trends, the value of the cedi, and rising living costs as critical factors that must inform wage adjustments.
“We’re aware time is short. We want to conclude negotiations even before December. We are assessing all relevant indicators affecting worker incomes to ensure a balanced and realistic settlement,” Dr. Pelpuo noted.
Push for Structural Reform Gains Ground
Beyond the immediate salary talks, attention is increasingly turning to structural reform within the public sector pay system. Calls have intensified for the establishment of an Independent Emoluments Commission—a constitutional body designed to provide long-term solutions to salary inequities and labour disputes.
Dr. Graham expressed strong support for the initiative, highlighting its potential to deliver a holistic review of the Single Spine Salary Structure. He believes the commission would help depoliticize salary negotiations and ensure fairness, especially concerning Article 71 office holders.
“The commission will help address recurring labour agitation by removing external interference and standardizing pay across the public sector,” Dr. Graham explained. “We are working towards its establishment as soon as possible.”
New FWSC Board to Strengthen Dialogue
In a related development, a new board has been inaugurated for the FWSC by the Ministry of Labour. This board is expected to enhance collaboration between the government and labour unions, promoting a more transparent and structured approach to wage negotiations going forward.
