A/R: Patients stranded as Nurses, Midwives withdraw full services amidst ongoing Strike
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The Ashanti Regional branch of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has withdrawn its services in all public hospitals across the region.
Effective Monday, June 9, 2025, services including in-patients, out- patients, and emergencies, antenatal have all been halted.
Despite the National Labour Commission (NLC) securing an interlocutory injunction on Thursday, June 5, 2025, the GRNMA insists it has not been legally served, hence the strike continues.
GRNMA’s demands not met
The Ashanti Regional Chairman for the GRNMA, Philemon Adu Brempong, in an interview on Otec FM’s morning show, “Nyansapo,” on Monday, stated that the strike will continue until their demands are met.
He expressed disappointment that the government has not shown commitment to implementing the 2024 Collective Agreement, including the payment of critical allowances owed to nurses and midwives.
“Until all our demands are met, nurses and midwives in the region have redrawn all services; we are not attending work,” he told the host, Kwaku Owusu Boateng.
Criticism of government priorities
Adu Brempong questioned the government’s priorities, noting that funds have been released for the renovation of castles and forts, but the nurses’ demands have been ignored.
“How come the government has released funds for the renovation of castles and forts in the country, and has refused to heed our demands? The healthcare of citizens should be a priority,” he emphasized.
Impact on healthcare services
Otec FM reporter Agya Sam, who visited Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), Manhyia District Hospital, and Suntreso Government Hospital on Monday, said hundreds of patients have been left stranded.
“Few nurses were seen at these hospitals doing absolutely nothing, consulting rooms are closed with patients, including pregnant women, sitting in long queues,” he reported.
GRNMA’s resolve
Despite the National Labour Commission securing an interlocutory injunction, the GRNMA insists it has been legally served and will continue the strike until its demands are met.
The association remains resolute in its demands for improved working conditions and implementation of collective agreements.
Source: Ghana/ptecfmghana.com/Francis Appiah
