Accra marks May Day without traditional march past
This year’s May Day celebration in the Greater Accra Region took on a different tone, as the traditional march past and parade by workers in both the public and private sectors were notably absent from the event held at Black Star Square on Friday.
Instead, the ceremony, which lasted under two hours, brought together over hundred workers from across the capital in a show of solidarity.
The atmosphere remained lively, filled with drumming, dancing and a shared sense of purpose as participants commemorated the day.
The regional event formed part of a nationwide observance held simultaneously across all 16 regions of Ghana, with the national celebration taking place in Koforidua under the theme: ‘Pivoting to Growth, Jobs and Sustainable Livelihoods Beyond Macroeconomic Stability.’
Delivering the keynote address, the Greater Accra Regional Minister and Member of Parliament for Shai-Osudoku, Mrs Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, reassured workers of the government’s commitment to addressing challenges confronting organised labour.
She highlighted key concerns, including low wages, pension disparities, income inequality and ongoing struggles within the informal sector, noting that these remain central to government policy.
Mrs Ocloo further revealed that the proposed establishment of an Independent Emoluments Commission was receiving due consideration.
She added that the government was also committed to reviewing aspects of the pension system to ensure both sustainability and fairness, while safeguarding workers’ rights and benefits.
Commending the private sector for its role in job creation, she underscored the importance of respecting the dignity and rights of workers.
“The path to economic stability and improved livelihoods requires partnership between the government, employers and labour. Together, we must build a system that rewards hard work, protects the vulnerable and ensures that no worker is left behind,” she stated.
The celebration also featured the presentation of awards, including cash prizes and citations, to workers from various labour unions in recognition of their dedication and hard work over the past year.
In attendance were leaders of the Greater Accra Regional Organised Labour, the Regional Secretary of the Trade Union Congress, and the Metropolitan Chief Executive of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, Michael Kpakpo Allotey.
BY BENJAMIN ARCTON-TETTEY
Follow our WhatsApp Channel now! https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbAjG7g3gvWajUAEX12Q
