Nkwanta: Mr Joseph Antwi Awal, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Nkwanta South, has expressed deep concern over the ongoing nationwide strike by members of the Civil and Local Government Staff Association, Ghana (CLOGSAG), citing its impact on productivity and service delivery at the Municipal level. CLOGSAG members across the country on Monday March 9, laid down their tools to protest against what they describe as unresolved working conditions and other service-related concerns.
According to Ghana News Agency, the industrial action has significantly disrupted operations in many assemblies, including Nkwanta South, being the hardest hit. On its visit to several departments, the GNA found their doors locked with padlocks, and offices that would ordinarily be occupied by staff were largely empty. The situation has left the Assembly's daily functions severely constrained, with the MCE reportedly among the few officials present at the premises.
Mr Awal, in an interview with the GNA on the development, described the strike as a major setback to the assembly's routine business and ongoing activities. He explained that the absence of key staff had affected workflow, delayed administrative processes, and limited the assembly's ability to respond promptly to the needs of residents. The MCE appealed to the striking workers to reconsider their decision and return to work as dialogue continued, to address the concerns raised.
Mr Awal Antwi also urged residents to remain calm and patient, noting that he believes the current administration, led by President John Mahama, was responsive and willing to listen. He also explained that efforts were expected to be made to engage stakeholders and resolve grievances, to restore normal operations. Mr Awal emphasised the importance of collaboration and timely resolution, stressing that prolonged disruption at the assemblies could ultimately affect communities that depended on local government services for development planning, coordination, and essential public administration.