The Medical Laboratory Professional Workers’ Union (MELPWU) has announced a nationwide strike. It will begin on May 12, 2026. This action follows the removal of the Head of Laboratory Services at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH). The union calls this removal unlawful. It accuses hospital management of breaking promises.
These promises were made at a meeting with the Ministry of Health on February 3, 2026. A key agreement was appointing a Medical Laboratory Scientist as head. This led MELPWU to cancel a planned strike earlier. However, the union says KBTH officials acted in bad faith. They allegedly reversed the decision. This allowed a physician to lead the department instead. MELPWU states this undermines professional standards. It also goes against the established structure for medical laboratory services.
This situation fits into Ghana's ongoing concerns about labour disputes in essential services. Public sector unions frequently raise issues about contractual agreements. These disputes can disrupt vital services. Earlier this year, other unions also threatened or initiated strikes. These include railway workers over unpaid salaries and public university staff. The health sector is particularly sensitive. Any disruption can have severe consequences for patient care.
MELPWU insists that the hospital management has violated binding administrative agreements. They have reported this to the National Labour Commission. The union is demanding the immediate reinstatement of the appointed Medical Laboratory Scientist. They also want strict adherence to the February 3 resolutions. Additionally, MELPWU seeks a clear leadership structure. They are even calling for a separate regulatory council for medical laboratory practitioners.
The implications of this strike are significant. It could halt essential laboratory services across Ghana. This would impact diagnosis and treatment for many patients. MELPWU has named specific officials for removal. These include the Board Chairman, Prof Titus Beyuo, and CEO, Dr Y.S. Adam. They accuse these leaders of bias. The union remains open to talks to resolve the issue. However, if their demands are not met, the strike will proceed. This would place considerable pressure on the Ministry of Health and KBTH management.