The Civil and Local Government Staff Association, Ghana (CLOGSAG), has announced a nationwide strike set to begin on Thursday, February 20, 2025, in protest against the continued tenure of Samuel Adom Botchway as the Registrar of the Births and Deaths Registry.
The association argues that Mr. Botchway’s presence at a recent budget hearing at the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs on Monday, February 17, contradicts earlier government commitments to replace him.
In a statement signed by Executive Secretary Isaac Bampoe Addo, CLOGSAG reaffirmed its decision to proceed with the industrial action unless the government addresses their concerns.
Government Defends Appointment
Despite the threats of a strike, the government has justified Mr. Botchway’s appointment, insisting that it aligns with constitutional provisions.
Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, February 19, at the Jubilee House, clarified that the President has the constitutional mandate to appoint the registrar.
“The laws governing the Births and Deaths Registry clearly specify that the appointment is the president’s prerogative. The president has acted in line with the 1992 constitution,” he stated.
He further explained that Section 236 of the constitution requires that a registrar be appointed based on relevant academic qualifications, experience, and administrative expertise.
“Mr. Adom Botchway possesses all the necessary experience for the role. CLOGSAG has not questioned his competence but argues that he is politically exposed. However, the law does not state that the position must be occupied by a civil servant,” Mr. Kwakye Ofosu added.
Strike Looms as Stalemate Continues
With both sides standing firm, the impasse raises concerns about potential disruptions in civil service operations if the strike goes ahead as planned.
Related Article: CLOGSAG declares nationwide strike over new registrar’s appointment
Government to reassign Samuel Adom Botchway after CLOGSAG protest
CLOGSAG has not indicated any willingness to back down unless the government takes action regarding the appointment.
As tensions escalate, stakeholders are closely watching to see if last-minute negotiations can prevent a nationwide industrial action that could affect public administration services.
READ FULL STATEMENT BELOW:
Read Also: NIA secures 700,000 blank Ghana Cards to clear backlog
CLICK HERE FOR MORE STORIES
