The Ghana Mineworkers’ Union (GMWU), operating under the Trades Union Congress (TUC), has issued a three-day ultimatum to BCM Ghana Limited, demanding the immediate payment of end-of-contract benefits owed to over 700 former workers.
According to the union, the affected employees were laid off more than ten months ago after their contracts expired. However, despite clear provisions in their employment agreements, the workers have not received the full benefits due them.
Union Stages Picket Over Delayed Payments
On Tuesday, December 16, members of the union organised a picket outside BCM Ghana Limited to protest the prolonged delay and press home their demand for prompt payment.
The union described the company’s failure to settle the outstanding benefits as unacceptable, unfair, and in violation of contractual obligations.
Workers Facing Severe Hardship – Union
Speaking during the protest, General Secretary of the GMWU, Abdul-Moomin Gbana, said the delay has caused serious financial distress for the affected workers and their families.
He explained that several attempts by the union to engage the management of BCM Ghana Limited had produced no meaningful outcome, forcing the union to resort to public action.
“These end-of-contract benefits are not a favour. They are earned entitlements,” Mr Gbana stressed.
“This Is Our Sweat and Blood”
Mr Gbana issued a firm warning to the company, making it clear that the union would escalate its actions if the payments are not made within the stipulated timeframe.
“The end-of-contract benefits are our sweat and blood. We worked for them, and every pesewa must be paid. We are not begging or pleading. This is a demand and a legitimate right. BCM has from today until Friday to pay us,” he declared.
Affected Workers Speak Out
Some of the former employees also shared their frustration, describing the situation as desperate and emotionally exhausting.
One worker lamented that the delay has had devastating consequences for many families.
“Our people are dying. We cannot wait until we are all gone before our families come to collect this money. We worked hard for it, and we deserve to be paid,” the worker said.
Company Yet to Respond
As of the time of filing this report, BCM Ghana Limited had not responded to the union’s demands, despite efforts to obtain the company’s side of the story.
The union maintains that failure by the company to act within the three-day ultimatum will result in stronger industrial action, as workers continue to press for justice and the payment of their lawful entitlements.
