President John Dramani Mahama has urged public sector workers to temper their demands for higher salaries this year, assuring them that once the economy recovers, remuneration will be significantly improved.
The president acknowledged the difficulties facing workers, as inflation and economic pressures continue to weigh heavily on Ghanaians.
However, he emphasized the need for a long-term approach, calling on labour unions to support the government’s efforts to stabilize the economy before pushing for higher wages.
“I am simply appealing to you to reach an agreement on this matter so that we can use this year as a period of correction. After we have made the necessary adjustments, we will see how the economy progresses.
“Once it moves in the direction we all hope for, and if we have an Independent Emoluments Committee, and if you propose a 35% increase, I will support it, as it will affect my pay too,” Mahama added.
Speaking during a meeting with the National Tripartite Committee at the Ministry of Labour, Jobs, and Employment, where the government announced a 10% increase in base pay, Mahama stressed the need for a period of economic correction before making substantial wage adjustments.
“Let’s temper our demands for this year. Once we recover from these challenges, we will set realistic targets to bring down inflation, which will lower the cost of living.
“We will focus on growing the economy to improve things. Once the economy expands, we will share the benefits accordingly,” he assured.
