The Senior Management Staff Union (SMSU) of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) has declared a red protest over what it describes as worsening staff victimisation, financial mismanagement and poor leadership at the state broadcaster.
At a press conference, the Union announced that members will begin wearing red armbands and hoisting red flags as a sign of protest against management’s handling of key staff concerns.
According to the Union, the action follows management’s failure to respond to a 24-hour ultimatum issued through their mother union, the Public Services Workers’ Union (PSWU), demanding a reversal of the transfer of two staff members to Tamale and Wa and the directive for another staff member to vacate his bungalow.
The Union said discussions on these matters at the Standing Joint Committee have not been concluded, yet management proceeded with decisions that it considers “unfortunate and deeply troubling.”
It further outlined several unresolved issues, including staff promotions, retooling of the Corporation, staff attrition, stoppage of salaries, unfair termination of appointments, enhancement of the provident fund and general staff welfare concerns.
The Union accused management of what it described as serious mismanagement and financial malfeasance, citing concerns such as the sale of GBC lands across the country, matters arising from the 13th African Games contract and payments, staff victimisation, bad faith in Standing Joint negotiations, non-refund of medical bills, non-payment of fuel allowances and transfer grants, and failure to replace broken-down vehicles and equipment.
It also alleged discrimination in staff promotions and persistent neglect of staff welfare, despite what it says appears to be regular inflow of revenue.
In light of the situation, the Union declared that it has lost confidence in the leadership of the Director-General, Professor Amin Alhassan, and stated that members can no longer work under his leadership.
The Union is calling for a forensic audit into the finances of the Corporation from October 1, 2019, when the Director-General assumed office, to date.
Additionally, it is demanding that the Director of Human Resources, Mr John Osei Korasare, proceed on leave with immediate effect.
The Union urged staff not to feel intimidated and reaffirmed its commitment to defending the rights and future of the Corporation.
“Aluta Continua,” the statement concluded.
