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Organised Labour has justified its decision to suspend the nationwide strike scheduled for October 10, aimed at pressuring the government to address illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, which poses significant environmental threats in Ghana.

The leadership of Organised Labour announced the suspension on October 9, just a day before the strike was set to begin. The decision, initially met with widespread support across various sectors, aimed to compel stronger government action against the destructive effects of galamsey.

However, the move to call off the strike has sparked criticism from some quarters, with accusations that Organised Labour yielded to external pressures or compromised their stance against galamsey. Supporters of the cause had viewed the strike as a pivotal step to hold the government accountable and prompt urgent action.

Bernard Owusu, Chairman of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), defended the suspension, emphasizing that it was made in good faith. He clarified that the decision was strategic, allowing the government time to address the concerns raised by Organised Labour.

Owusu reassured the public that if the government fails to act decisively, Organised Labour remains prepared to resume the strike or explore other forms of protest to ensure that the issue of galamsey is effectively addressed.

“We sent demands to the government and the government has made some provisions. It will be prudent as right-thinking people to rescind that decision because the government has met some of our demands and we think going forward, we have given an ultimatum and the government has come back to us and we think that we can monitor what the government wants to do going forward.

“So I don’t think there is any disappointment here. I believe that we have to be even applauded.”

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