Minority slams Government over “Insulting” 9% pay rise for public sector workers

Calls Increment a “Massive Betrayal” Amid Harsh Economic Conditions

The Minority in Parliament has strongly condemned the government’s recent announcement of a 9% salary increment for public sector workers, describing the decision as “a massive betrayal” and “a clear demonstration of government’s insensitivity” to the economic hardships faced by Ghanaians.

In a statement signed by Hon. Mavis Nkansah Boadu, Ranking Member on the Committee on Employment, Labour Relations, and Pensions, the Minority argued that the 9% increase fails to reflect the current cost-of-living crisis and the steep rise in inflation, transportation fares, and utility tariffs.

“In the last ten months alone, transport fares, utility tariffs, fuel prices, and the general cost of goods and services have increased astronomically,” the statement noted. “Inflation continues to erode disposable incomes, while the cedi remains unstable. In such a climate, a mere 9% increment is not only insignificant; it is punitive to hardworking Ghanaians who continue to bear the brunt of the Government’s fiscal indiscipline.”

The Minority contrasted the current increment with previous salary adjustments under the same Nana Akufo-Addo-led administration, pointing out that workers enjoyed higher increases in previous years — 24% in 2024, approximately 30% in 2023, 15% in 2020, and 10–11% in 2018 and 2019.

They expressed disbelief that the government, which managed to give higher raises during the global COVID-19 pandemic, would now offer far less at a time when the economy is said to be recovering.

“The current single-digit salary increase is shameful, especially considering that the NPP Government managed to give public sector workers better salary increases even during the COVID-19 pandemic, when global revenues were low. How can the Government justify offering far less now, when the economy is supposedly recovering?” the Minority queried.

The statement further criticized the administration’s economic management, accusing it of “taxing more, borrowing more, spending more, and compensating workers with less.” The group urged government to reopen negotiations with Organized Labour and agree on a realistic increment that aligns with inflation and consumer price levels.

“Salary adjustments must be based on the real cost of living, not political optics,” the Minority stressed. “Anything less than this will be economic injustice for the people whose productivity is driving the nation every day.”

Reaffirming its commitment to advocating for workers’ welfare, the Minority pledged to “speak for the voiceless” and ensure that public policy is anchored on fairness, equity, and sustainability.