The Deputy Communications Officer of Ghana's National Democratic Congress (NDC), Godwin Ako Gun, has urged the governing party to strengthen its engagement with organised labour. He emphasized that workers and labour organisations should be treated as allies in Ghana's economic recovery process. Speaking on Ahotor FM's Morning Show in Accra-Tema on October 1, 2026, Mr Ako Gun highlighted the need for improved communication on the country's economic policies and challenges.
Mr Ako Gun explained that effective communication between government and organised labour could help prevent misunderstandings and create room for constructive negotiations. He stated that when government clearly communicates the state of the economy and its challenges, organised labour would better appreciate the circumstances and consider possible adjustments to its demands. This, he believes, could lead to compromises that account for workers' concerns and the state's financial capacity.
The NDC Deputy Communications Officer urged government not to simply reject demands it considers difficult to meet but to explain what it can realistically afford and engage labour leaders on possible alternatives. He stressed that continuous engagement is crucial as Ghana works to recover from economic difficulties. Mr Ako Gun pointed to relative stability in the foreign exchange market as a positive development supporting the recovery process.
According to Mr Ako Gun, the stability of the cedi has helped prevent some prices from rising sharply, although international developments, such as fluctuations in crude oil prices, could still affect the domestic economy. He also cited international conflicts and tensions involving the US, Iran, Russia, and Ukraine as potential global economic uncertainties that could impact Ghana.
Mr Ako Gun urged workers and organised labour to appreciate the sacrifices required during economic recovery periods while calling on government to engage them honestly and transparently. He illustrated his point with a situation where a worker's demand could be adjusted through negotiations to a figure the state can afford. This, he believes, could help both sides meet halfway.
Mr Ako Gun disagreed with the suggestion that labour organisations oppose the NDC simply to undermine the government. He noted that the NDC's historical relationship with the labour movement and its identification with workers' interests could lead to stronger demands under an NDC administration. Therefore, the NDC must understand labour expectations and regard their demands as opportunities for engagement and negotiation.
The Deputy Communications Officer emphasized that stronger communication and continuous dialogue between government and organised labour would help build trust and enable both sides to work together towards sustaining Ghana's economic recovery. This, he believes, is crucial given the NDC's decision to celebrate workers as part of its political calendar, reflecting its historical connection with the labour movement.
Key points
- The NDC party must improve communication with organised labour to aid economic recovery.
