Mortuary Workers Threaten to Strike Again Over Unmet Demands  

The Mortuary Workers Association of Ghana, MOWAG, has served notice to the Akufo-Addo government to embark on a nationwide strike early next month if certain crucial demands aimed at improving working conditions are not met. This strike action comes after a prolonged period of discontent over what MOWAG describes as governmental neglect.

MOWAG represents mortuary workers across the country, advocating for better working conditions, salary increases, and essential materials such as PPE. Since the limelight in 2019, it has remained a case where members face poor working conditions flouting health and safety standards.

Speaking to Citi News, MOWAG's General Secretary, Richard Kofi Jordan, expressed the frustration of the association. According to him, it was just a series of delay tactics on the part of the government to request additional data, which he said were mere ploys to prolong the negotiation process. He berated such a stance, indicating that workers continue working amidst "deplorable" conditions with no meaningful governmental intervention.

Jordan said that, despite trying for many years to reach the relevant authorities with its grievances, mortuary workers are still exposed to unsafe conditions. He underscored the fact that events have reached a juncture where MOWAG is left with no option but to mobilize itself for industrial action to force the hand of the government. Dates for strike action will be declared later, probably at the end of October or early November.

This looming strike does have grave implications for health facilities and bereaved families. It also captures the urgency for Ghana's health sector to address MOWAG's demands to ensure fair treatment for mortuary workers whose jobs are important but often invisible.