The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has called on the government to introduce stricter labour laws that will compel employers to provide clear reasons for terminating the employment of workers.
Speaking at the 2026 May Day celebrations on Friday, May 1, TUC Secretary-General Joshua Ansah argued that the current system leaves workers vulnerable to arbitrary dismissals and job insecurity.
Mr. Ansah stressed that requiring employers to justify firings would significantly strengthen worker protections and promote fairness in the labour market.
He also expressed worry over what he described as increasing politicisation in the public sector, where promotions, transfers, rewards, and disciplinary actions are allegedly based on workers’ real or perceived political affiliations rather than merit.
“In the public sector, we are witnessing increasing politicisation. Workers are being promoted, transferred, rewarded and punished on the basis of their actual or perceived political views,” he said.
Mr. Ansah warned that justifying such practices by citing past precedents is unacceptable and could erode the integrity and professionalism of state institutions if left unaddressed.
He therefore urged President John Dramani Mahama to take bold steps to reset the system through comprehensive reforms to Ghana’s labour laws.
“Strengthening the legal framework will ensure better protection for workers and promote fairness in employment practices across both the public and private sectors,” he added.
The TUC Secretary-General further called for greater investment in social dialogue, urging the government to adequately resource institutions responsible for labour relations to foster meaningful engagement among employers, employees, and policymakers.