BTA2023 The Civil and Local Government Staff Association, Ghana (CLOGSAG), has clarified that its ongoing industrial action is not intended to challenge the President’s authority in making public service appointments.
Instead, the strike, which commenced on Thursday, February 20, 2025, is a response to the appointment of Mr. Samuel Adom Botchway as Acting Registrar of the Births and Deaths Registry. CLOGSAG contends that Mr. Botchway is a “politically exposed person,” and his appointment contravenes the 2017 Supreme Court ruling that prohibits civil servants from engaging in partisan politics.
In a statement signed by Executive Secretary Mr. Isaac Bampoe Addo, CLOGSAG emphasized that the strike aims to uphold the principles of neutrality, anonymity, professionalism, and permanence within the Civil and Local Government Services. The Association asserts that Mr. Botchway’s appointment undermines these principles, as outlined in the Supreme Court’s decision.
The government has appealed to CLOGSAG to reconsider its decision, arguing that the strike lacks legal basis and could unfairly impact the public, who rely on uninterrupted public services. Despite this, CLOGSAG’s National Executive Council has urged its members to continue the industrial action until Mr. Botchway is removed from his position.
This is not the first time CLOGSAG has opposed appointments to the Births and Deaths Registry. In 2022, the Association challenged the appointment of Mrs. Henrietta Lamptey as Registrar, arguing that the process deviated from standard practices. That case is still pending a court judgment.
The 2017 Supreme Court ruling, which serves as the basis for CLOGSAG’s current stance, held that civil servants are prohibited from contesting elections, other than local government elections, or holding political party positions. This decision was made to maintain the neutrality and professionalism of the Civil and Local Government Services.
As the strike continues, public services nationwide have been disrupted, leading to office closures and leaving citizens without access to essential services. The situation remains unresolved as both CLOGSAG and the government stand firm in their positions.
