The Teachers and Educational Workers’ Union (TEWU) of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), Ghana, has strongly condemned a recent joint press release issued by the so-called Tertiary Education Workers Union of Ghana (TEWU-GH) and the Technical University Workers Association of Ghana (TUWAG).
In a statement released on Monday, the General Secretary of TEWU of TUC (Ghana), Mr. King James Azortibah, described the release as “reckless and misleading,” warning that it is a calculated attempt to create confusion among Junior Staff in the country’s public and technical universities.
“Let it be placed on record,” Mr. Azortibah stated, “these groups are breakaway factions with no legal mandate, no bargaining certificate, and no moral authority to speak on behalf of our members.”
“Their actions,” he added, “are nothing but a desperate bid to mislead workers and undermine the legitimate struggle for better conditions of service.”
TEWU of TUC Holds the Sole Legal Bargaining Certificate
According to TEWU of TUC, the Union has been the only legally recognised and internationally respected union for Junior Staff in all public and technical universities in Ghana for over 65 years.
“The Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), and the National Labour Commission recognise TEWU of TUC as the exclusive bargaining agent,” the statement stressed.
“The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has signed the Rules of Engagement only with TEWU of TUC (Ghana) — not with TEWU-GH, TUWAG, or any other faction. This is an undisputed fact.”
Warning to Junior Staff
TEWU of TUC issued a firm warning to all Junior Staff to be vigilant and not fall prey to misinformation:
“Do not be deceived. Do not be used as pawns by these illegitimate groups,” the Union warned.
“Your salaries, working conditions, and future are protected only under the authority of TEWU of TUC (Ghana). Any attempt to follow the misleading advice of these breakaway groups will jeopardise your hard-won rights.”
Strike Action is Legal, Justified, and Binding
TEWU of TUC reaffirmed the legitimacy and legality of its current strike action, asserting that all necessary procedures under the Labour Act have been duly followed.
“The action is legal, justified, and binding on all members,” said Mr. Azortibah.
“We will not allow a few opportunists to sabotage the collective struggle of thousands of workers who deserve nothing less than justice and dignity at the workplace.”
Call to Action: Stay United, Stay Resolute
The Union called on all Junior Staff in public and technical universities to stand firm:
“Stand solidly with TEWU of TUC (Ghana). Fully participate in the ongoing strike action,” the statement urged.
“Ignore and reject with contempt any statements from TEWU-GH, TUWAG, or any other usurpers.”
“This strike is about your welfare, your future, and your dignity. Let us remain united, resolute, and unyielding until our legitimate demands are met.”
