A sudden indefinite strike by National Identification Authority staff has left numerous applicants in the Ashanti Region unable to access essential services, including the critical Ghana Card. The strike, which began on Monday, June 10, 2024, has caused widespread disruption and frustration among those seeking to obtain the mandatory identification card.
The Public Services Workers Union announced the strike on Sunday, citing poor conditions of service and the government’s failure to address negotiation delays and institution-specific allowances. The union had initially postponed an intended strike in March 2024 after the Minister of Employment and Labour Relations intervened, but the lack of progress in negotiations has prompted industrial action.
As a result, all NIA offices, including district, regional, and premium centers, have ceased operations, leaving frustrated applicants who travelled from distant areas in limbo. Many had urgently needed the Ghana Card for various activities, including employment, banking, and healthcare services.
Affected individuals have expressed distress and disappointment, highlighting the critical importance of the Ghana Card and the significant impact the strike will have on their plans. They are now urging the government and relevant authorities to address the NIA’s concerns promptly, fearing the effects of the strike will only worsen with time if a resolution is not reached soon.
The strike has also raised concerns about the potential consequences for the region’s economy and development, as the Ghana Card is a essential requirement for many services and transactions. The situation remains unresolved, with no clear indication of when the strike will end.
