The Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL) has officially declared that its leadership will abstain from the 2026 May Day celebrations, citing deep-seated disagreements over the event’s organisation and a perceived lack of inclusiveness.
Speaking on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, Secretary-General Abraham Koomson explained that the decision stems from a failure to respect the collective ownership of the programme, which is intended to be a unified platform for all workers.
The GFL contends that Ghana’s labour landscape has shifted fundamentally since the enactment of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651).
He noted that the legislation ended the era of a monolithic labour structure by recognising various independent unions and multiple labour centres.
He argued that May Day proceedings should reflect this pluralism rather than being controlled by a single organisation, ensuring that the diverse voices of the modern workforce are represented fairly.
According to him, a clear roadmap for the event had originally been established during a meeting at the GNAT Hall on 23 April 2026.
This consensus involved three major labour centres and proposed a shared leadership role: the FORUM Chairman was slated to deliver the welcome address, while the Trades Union Congress (TUC) would provide the keynote speech.
He explained that the arrangement was designed to foster solidarity and demonstrate a united front to the government and the public.
However, this agreement was abruptly dismantled on 27 April during a subsequent meeting at the Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment. The GFL claims the TUC’s Management Committee rejected the previously agreed-upon terms, effectively asserting dominance over the programme.
Describing the move as a major setback for union unity, the GFL stated that its withdrawal is a principled stand to protect the dignity of all labour groups and to demand a more equitable system that honours the spirit of modern labour laws.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana