Labour unions pressure gov’t to seal public sector pay deal before 2026 budget presentation.

 

Labour unions pressure gov’t to seal public sector pay deal before 2026 budget presentation.

Labour unions across the country are calling on the government to fast-track negotiations on public sector base pay ahead of the 2026 budget presentation. 

The call, led by the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), reflects growing concern over the rising cost of living and economic pressures confronting workers.

GNAT President, Rev. Isaac Owusu, stressed that it is essential for the government to conclude discussions with organised labour before the 2026 budget reaches Parliament. He noted that any delay could prevent fair salary adjustments from being captured in the national financial plan. “We know the budget will be presented in November, so it is necessary to complete negotiations early enough for the Finance Minister to incorporate the new pay agreement,” Rev. Owusu remarked.

According to him, teachers and other public sector workers have endured significant financial strain throughout 2025 and deserve equitable remuneration in the coming year. He hinted that GNAT would reject any salary increment below 10 percent, describing it as the least acceptable adjustment considering persistent inflation and rising household costs.

Similarly, other labour bodies such as the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) and the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) have echoed GNAT’s stance. They insist that concluding the negotiations before the budget presentation will ensure smooth implementation and fairness across all sectors. The unions maintain that timely resolution will signal the government’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare and maintaining economic stability.

As the nation awaits the 2026 budget presentation later this month, all eyes are on the outcome of these discussions, which could shape the financial well-being of thousands of public sector employees.