The Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) has confirmed that its indefinite nationwide strike, which began on November 2, 2026, remains in effect. According to General Secretary Abdulai Yakubu, the strike was called due to unresolved issues, including the 2026 salary review and payment of arrears. JUSAG had been seeking approval for the salary review since December 2025. The association's demands are based on Article 149 of the 1992 Constitution and Regulation 25 of the Judicial Service (Terms and Conditions of Service) Regulations, 2026.
JUSAG's leadership, along with that of the Senior Staff Association of the Judicial Service of Ghana (SSAJUG), held a meeting with the Chief Justice and Judicial Service Management on November 2, 2026. The meeting was described as progressive, with Management showing commitment to working with the Government to meet JUSAG's demands. A revised letter from the Ministry of Finance regarding the payment of allowances was also received. These developments have been commended by JUSAG, but the association is waiting for the outcome of the interventions before making a decision.
Management has tabled the outstanding issues before the Office of the President for expedited resolution. JUSAG is seeking the approval of the Judicial Council's recommendations on the 2026 salary review and the payment of reviewed salaries in November 2026, together with arrears from January to October 2026. The association had previously notified the National Labour Commission (NLC) of its intention to strike, and the NLC had advised JUSAG to suspend its action under Section 161 of the Labour Act.
The strike has affected courts across Ghana, with all Judicial Service staff, except security personnel, directed not to report for work. Drivers have been ordered to hand over official vehicles, and registrars have been instructed not to open court registries. JUSAG had rejected a proposal by the Ministry of Finance to pay arrears in three instalments without a timeline. The association is insisting on a revised and improved approval from the Government before calling off the strike.
According to Abdulai Yakubu, when a revised and improved approval is received from the Government and satisfies JUSAG's demands, the association will inform the public on the status of the strike. The strike has been in effect since November 2, 2026, and it is unclear when it will be called off. JUSAG's demands are centered on improving the working conditions of its members.
The Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana was established to promote the interests of its members and to ensure that their rights are protected. The association has been actively engaged in negotiations with the Government and Judicial Service Management to resolve the impasse. The outcome of these negotiations will determine the future of the strike and the working conditions of Judicial Service staff.
The strike has significant implications for the justice system in Ghana, with courts across the country affected. The situation remains uncertain, with JUSAG waiting for a revised and improved approval from the Government. The association's leadership will continue to engage with the Government and Judicial Service Management to resolve the outstanding issues.
Key points
- The Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana's indefinite nationwide strike continues despite a "progressive" meeting with the Chief Justice and Judicial Service Management.
- JUSAG is seeking the approval of the Judicial Council's recommendations on the 2026 salary review and the payment of reviewed salaries in November 2026, together with arrears from January to October 2026.
- The strike has affected courts across Ghana, with all Judicial Service staff, except security personnel, directed not to report for work.
