Labour Minister praises organised labour for compromise in 2025 salary negotiations

The Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr. Rashid Pelpuo, has praised Organised Labour for its restraint, maturity and willingness to compromise during the 2026 public sector salary negotiations, describing its approach as instrumental in preserving Ghana's industrial peace while the country continues its economic recovery.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Labour Affairs Correspondent Daniel Opoku in Accra, Dr. Pelpuo said the constructive engagement displayed by labour unions throughout the negotiation process enabled both parties to reach a mutually acceptable agreement despite difficult economic circumstances.

I want to commend Organised Labour for the maturity and understanding they demonstrated during the negotiations. Their willingness to engage in constructive dialogue helped us maintain industrial peace at a time when the country is working hard to stabilise the economy," he said.

This year's salary negotiations attracted nationwide attention after Organised Labour proposed a 30 percent salary increase for public sector workers to cushion them against the rising cost of living.

Government, however, maintained that the country's ongoing economic recovery could not support such an increase without jeopardising fiscal stability.

Following several rounds of negotiations, both parties agreed on a 9 percent salary increase for public sector workers, a compromise Dr. Pelpuo described as a testament to the value of good-faith negotiations.

Negotiations are about finding common ground. While government had economic constraints, Organised Labour also had genuine concerns about workers' welfare. The agreement demonstrates what can be achieved when both sides negotiate in good faith," he stated.

The Labour Minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to safeguarding existing jobs while implementing policies aimed at creating more employment opportunities for young people.

According to him, protecting employment remains a key pillar of the government's labour agenda.

Government remains committed to ensuring that no worker loses his or her job because of this agreement. At the same time, we are pursuing policies that will create more employment opportunities for the youth," he added.

He stressed that maintaining cordial relations between government, employers and organised labour remains one of the ministry's highest priorities, noting that industrial harmony is essential for increased productivity, investor confidence and sustained economic growth.

Dr. Pelpuo's efforts to strengthen labour relations and promote dialogue have attracted recognition from several organisations in recent months.

The Minister, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Wa Central, recently received a citation from a parliamentary group in recognition of his contributions to community development, including educational support and other development initiatives in his constituency.

He has also been honoured by the Industrial and Commercial Workers' Union (ICU) for his commitment to promoting harmonious labour relations and advancing the welfare of Ghanaian workers.

Several local and international organisations have similarly recognised his contributions to public service, labour relations and national development.