The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has issued a scathing condemnation of what it describes as a series of “draconian and retaliatory measures” being orchestrated by the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG) to punish nurses and midwives who participated in a recent lawful strike action.
In a statement released on July 2, 2025, the GRNMA expressed deep concern over a circular from CHAG dated June 30, 2025, titled “Request for List of Staff”, which was widely circulated among CHAG-affiliated health facilities.
According to the Association, the document is far from routine and represents a coordinated attempt to track and penalize its members for exercising their right to strike.
Alleged Punitive Measures
Investigations by GRNMA suggest that CHAG’s leadership is implementing a multi-pronged strategy to intimidate and suppress dissent within its workforce.
The alleged measures include:
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Recalling all newly posted staff who took part in the strike for reassignment.
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Demoting nurse managers and supervisors who showed solidarity with the industrial action.
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Reassigning Heads of Department (HODs) who participated in the strike to junior positions.
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Withholding May allowances from striking staff.
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Restricting access to key employment benefits such as accommodation and responsibility allowances.
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Undermining career progression by delaying or denying promotions under the guise of “performance and conduct”.
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Collaborating with the Controller and Accountant General’s Department to delay one week’s salary payment to those who participated.
Violation of Labor Rights
GRNMA describes these actions as not only oppressive but also illegal. Citing Section 10(d) of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), the Association reminded CHAG that every Ghanaian worker has the right to join a trade union and participate in its lawful activities—including strikes.
While acknowledging that Sections 162 and 163 of the same law restrict strike actions by essential service providers, the GRNMA emphasized that this does not justify retaliatory punishment by employers.
Rather, the law calls for a balanced approach that respects the grievances of essential workers while ensuring public service continuity.
Call for Government Oversight and Solidarity
GRNMA is urging the Ministry of Health and the Government of Ghana to intervene, stressing that CHAG—though a faith-based organization—operates health facilities staffed and remunerated through public funds.
The Association argues that such retaliation, if left unchecked, could set a dangerous precedent for labor relations in the country.
“We categorically denounce this intimidation tactics aimed at undermining our fundamental right to peaceful assembly and lawful protest,” the statement reads.
“Targeting individuals for standing up for their rights is an affront to justice and the core values of our profession—compassion, care, and solidarity.”
Warning of Escalation
The GRNMA has warned that it will not stand idly by as its members are victimized.
It pledged to defend its members through all legitimate means, including legal action and renewed industrial action if CHAG proceeds with its punitive agenda.
In the meantime, the Association called on all nurses and midwives working in CHAG facilities to remain calm and professional, assuring them of continued advocacy and protection from leadership.
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