CLOGSAG Strike Leaves Offices Nationwide Deserted as Public Frustration Grows
The nationwide strike by the Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG) has left many public offices across the country deserted, with citizens stranded and services at a standstill. The industrial action, which commenced on Thursday, February 20, 2025, is in protest against the government’s appointment of Samuel Adom Botchway as the Registrar of the Births and Deaths Registry, a move CLOGSAG claims compromises the neutrality of the civil service.
Public Outcry Over Disruptions
Frustration is mounting as thousands of Ghanaians who visited various government offices for essential services, including passport applications, permits, and administrative processes, found themselves unattended. Many expressed disappointments, arguing that while CLOGSAG may have legitimate grievances, the timing of their industrial action is inappropriate, considering the current economic and governance challenges facing the country.
“I was instructed to come for my birth certificate, where I will be needing it for a process at the Births and Deaths Registry. This strike is making things very difficult for me,” lamented a frustrated applicant in Accra.
While some sympathize with CLOGSAG’s stance, others believe the strike is disruptive and an abuse of due process. Critics argue that the association should resort to dialogue or legal action rather than holding the public hostage through industrial action.
“They should sit down with the government and negotiate or take the matter to court. This is affecting too many people,” a stranded citizen in Accra expressed.
Government Dismisses Legitimacy of Strike
The government, on the other hand, has dismissed the legal basis for the strike, maintaining that the appointment of Botchway was carried out in line with the law. Government spokesperson Felix Ofosu Kwakye insisted that CLOGSAG has no legal grounds to embark on industrial action over the matter.
“The President has acted in accordance with Ghanaian law, and unless the courts decide otherwise, the appointment stands. CLOGSAG should reconsider its stance and opt for further dialogue,” he stated at a press briefing.
Despite the government’s call for calm and negotiation, CLOGSAG remains adamant, insisting that the strike will continue until their concerns are addressed. The standoff raises concerns about prolonged service disruptions, further straining an already overburdened public sector.
As tensions rise, all eyes are on both parties to see whether negotiations will be initiated or whether the legal battle will intensify. In the meantime, thousands of Ghanaians continue to bear the brunt of the impasse, with no immediate resolution in sight.
About The Author
