Labour Leaders Must Prioritise Integrity to Protect Workers’ Rights – Security Analyst

A security analyst and governance advocate, Francis Ahovi, has urged urgent reforms within Ghana’s labour unions, cautioning that self-serving practices by some union leaders risk sparking unnecessary unrest.

In a statement issued by the Global Security for Africa Research and Good Governance (GLOSARGG), where he serves as Executive Secretary, Mr Ahovi acknowledged the vital role of workers and union leaders in promoting fairness and amplifying employee voices.

However, he warned that a minority within the labour movement deliberately fuel conflicts for personal or political gain, threatening industrial harmony and national stability.

To address these challenges, Mr Ahovi proposed three key interventions: transparent and merit-based union elections, independent oversight of union polls by neutral bodies such as the Labour Commission or credible civil society organisations, and mandatory training for all labour leaders in negotiation, conflict resolution, and ethics, reinforced by a strict, enforceable code of conduct.

“Safeguarding the dignity of workers means having leaders who prioritise the collective good over their own ambitions,” he stressed. “By improving how we select leaders, enhancing oversight, and building the ethical skills of union leaders, we can not only protect workers’ rights but also maintain national peace and social stability.”

Mr Ahovi concluded that credible, accountable union leadership is essential for sustaining industrial peace and supporting Ghana’s broader development goals.