- Suspended GWL workers protested at Black Star Square, demanding reinstatement.
- Their appointments were frozen due to a February directive nullifying late 2024 recruitments.
- Workers say they’ve gone eight months without pay and fear being replaced.
- The suspension followed a broader government order targeting post-election hires.
- Protesters are calling on President Mahama and GWL management to intervene.
Suspended staff of Ghana Water Limited (GWL) staged a protest at Accra’s Black Star Square on Wednesday, demanding reinstatement after eight months without pay. The workers, many of whom were recruited in late 2024 but never added to the payroll, say they’ve been left stranded since a February directive froze their appointments.
Wearing red bands and holding placards, the group called on President John Dramani Mahama and GWL’s management to intervene. Messages like “We are all Ghanaians” and “Call us back to work” echoed through the square as the workers sang patriotic songs to amplify their plea.
The suspension stems from a government-wide order nullifying recruitments made after December 7, 2024, citing governance irregularities. GWL followed up with its own directive on February 11, instructing that all November hires who hadn’t yet been placed on the payroll be suspended indefinitely.
Many of the affected workers say they were already posted to regional offices and had begun working before the freeze took effect. They now face mounting financial pressure, with no salaries since February and reports that new hires are being brought in to fill their roles.
Former management trainee Eugene Larbi described the situation as devastating, especially for those with families and school fees to pay. The group has vowed to continue picketing until their concerns are addressed by GWL and the relevant authorities.
