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The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has hit hard at government for showing what the association described as “bad faith” in their negotiation for better working conditions. They have also bemoaned utterances from some government communicators on the issue, describing it as “laden with vile propaganda.”

In a statement released after a crucial national executive council meeting held in Koforidua on 11th August, the doctors also condemned the actions of some hospitals that were sacking doctors for solidarising with their striking colleagues. “The attention of the National Executive Council has been drawn to events happening at the Techiman Holy Family Hospital leading to the release of 14 house officers from the institution for reposting.

The GMA will like to condemn the recent phenomenon where heads of training institutions. This act amounts to intimidation and an infringement on the rights of house officers to participate in trade union activities, a right which is enshrined in the Labour Act 651. The GMA will not hesitate to bring its full force to bear on such institutions that perpetuate such inferior tactics on its members.

The GMA may in future advice its members not to serve in such institutions if it becomes necessary,” the statement said.

The GMA further noted with disdain, government’s unstable position on the negotiating table, making it difficult for a common ground to be found in their discussions which broke down on Sunday 9th August. The statement further stated “It must be noted that, government on several occasions had put positions on the negotiation table only to come back and withdraw them when it had been agreed by both parties.

The on-going media war and propaganda launched by the Government through putting out of lies and half-truths do not add value to negotiations. In the opinion of the GMA, this path only leads to the inflammation of passions. This rather worsens the situation and in so doing boost the determination of the GMA to press home our demand for a proper negotiated and signed Conditions of Service.”

The doctors are scheduled to meet again in an extra-ordinary general assembly meeting on Friday to consider appeals from various quarters as well to take a concrete decision on their industrial action. The Ghana Medical Association has been on strike for almost two week, demanding better conditions of service from government.