Galamsey Crisis: TUTAG Declares Strike Following Withdrawal of Organised Labour

The Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG) has announced a strike in response to the illegal mining crisis, known as galamsey.

This decision follows Organised Labour’s unexpected withdrawal from a planned nationwide strike, which had been prompted by government intervention.

In a statement released on October 10, TUTAG expressed disappointment at being sidelined in Organised Labour’s decision-making process.

They condemned this unilateral move, emphasizing that abandoning the strike undermines the collective power of the labor movement and the urgency of addressing galamsey, one of the most critical environmental issues today.

“This retreat from solidarity is unacceptable and diminishes the trust of our members who seek transparency and unity in tackling our common challenges,” TUTAG stated.

They stressed that the fight against galamsey is a shared national responsibility and criticized Organised Labour for missing a key opportunity to present a united front against the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining.

Despite feeling betrayed, TUTAG affirmed its commitment to the cause and solidarity with all unions taking action through strikes and demonstrations. During an Emergency Congress on October 10, they resolved to initiate the necessary procedures to invoke their right to strike.

TUTAG’s demands to the government include recalling Parliament to revoke Legislative Instrument (LI) 2462, halting new mining licenses, and banning all activities in sensitive ecological zones.

They also called for a national dialogue on sustainable small-scale mining and for restoring lands damaged by illegal mining.

The association urged immediate action from the government to protect the environment and restore public faith in leadership.

TUTAG reassured its members to remain calm and united as they advance their efforts against illegal mining.