An aggrieved group of Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG) members has called on President Mahama to disregard negotiations with the National Executive Council (NEC) over their failed strike action.
According to the over 3,500 concerned workers, the strike declared by NEC was unnecessary, uncalled for, and a complete failure.
“We, therefore, urge the government not to engage with CLOGSAG leadership regarding this self-serving strike, as it has already lost its relevance and died a natural death,” the group stated.
Additionally, the group has demanded the immediate dissolution of NEC, alleging it is dominated by retirees. They insist that CLOGSAG has capable, active members ready to manage the association effectively.
Full Press Statement:
Press Statement on Developments in CLOGSAG
Monday, 3rd March 2025
Ladies and gentlemen, we warmly welcome you to this critical press conference.
First and foremost, we emphasize that all members of the Aggrieved CLOGSAG Members are dedicated and active members of CLOGSAG. This press conference is necessitated by the unlawful strike action declared by CLOGSAG leadership on Thursday, 20th February, and reaffirmed on Monday, 24th February 2025.
We have disregarded the strike as pressing concerns, such as the appointment of an individual to the Births and Deaths Registry, remain unresolved. We previously issued a statement urging members to stay at post and ensure the smooth functioning of government services. It is gratifying to note that many heeded this call, proving the strike was unnecessary and a complete failure.
We, therefore, urge the government not to enter into any negotiation with CLOGSAG leadership regarding this failed strike.
Key Issues Confronting CLOGSAG Members
The failed strike is proof that the NEC has lost touch with the realities faced by members nationwide. Below are pressing concerns affecting CLOGSAG members:
- Non-Implementation of Enhanced Salary Structure (ESS)
The most critical concern for CLOGSAG members is the delayed implementation of the Enhanced Salary Structure (ESS). Despite previous strikes, there has been no progress, reflecting the incompetence of the leadership. The ESS, originally scheduled for January 2023, was postponed to January 2025, yet remains a mirage.
- Unauthorized Withdrawal of Pension Funds
The Executive Secretary, Isaac Bampoe Addo, and the Acting President illegally withdrew GHC 14,323,088.88 from the CLOGSAG Fund to purchase regional office vehicles without due process. This violates multiple financial regulations and best practices.
- Unlawful Tier 3 Deductions
Since February 2023, leadership has illegally deducted funds from members’ salaries as Tier 3 contributions without consent, violating the National Pensions Act (2008), Act 766. No audited accounts have been provided since its inception. The matter is currently in court, with hearings scheduled for March 24th and 25th, 2025.
- Manipulation of Members’ Investment Returns
While treasury bills offer 26-28% interest per annum, members receive only 14-18% on their CLOGSAG investments. Meanwhile, loans taken from their own funds attract a 22% interest rate. Where does the rest of the investment returns go?
- Fraudulent Withdrawal of GHC 500,000
Leadership fraudulently withdrew GHC 500,000 from CLOGSAG’s main account at Access Bank without the legally required signatures. The Police CID is currently investigating this financial misconduct.
- Diversion of Funds for Personal Use
Revenue from CLOGSAG Band and the Nathan Quao Auditorium, meant for the association, has been secretly diverted to an unofficial bank account controlled by the Executive Secretary.
- Illegal Takeover of Pempamsie Hotel
The Executive Secretary unlawfully changed Pempamsie Hotel’s registration to a private company and appointed himself Executive Director, drawing a hefty salary without accountability.
- Acting President is Not a CLOGSAG Member
Evidence shows that Mr. Benjamin Otto is not a legitimate CLOGSAG member. He is a GRA Chartered Accountant, does not pay CLOGSAG dues, and is unaffected by CLOGSAG conditions of service.
- Retirees Running CLOGSAG
Shockingly, over half of CLOGSAG’s leadership consists of retirees, some retired for over 15 years. A labor union cannot be run by individuals no longer in active service.
- Double Salary Scandal
Despite being employed full-time at CLOGSAG since 2011, the Executive Secretary continues to receive a government salary, amounting to an illegal double salary scheme.
Our Demands
- Immediate resignation of Executive Secretary Isaac Bampoe Addo and Acting President Benjamin Otto for independent investigations.
- Termination of the illegal Tier 3 deductions and a refund with interest.
- Immediate resignation of all retired officers in CLOGSAG leadership.
- A forensic audit into CLOGSAG’s accounts and investments.
- Urgent national elections per the High Court ruling on April 30, 2024 (Suit No. GJ/0306/2023).
- The Police CID must continue investigating the fraudulent GHC 500,000 withdrawal.
Conclusion
CLOGSAG, once a beacon of hope, is now plagued by corruption, nepotism, and financial mismanagement. If members do not take action, their pensions and future livelihoods will be at risk.
We will soon petition the President, National Labour Commission, Ministry of Labour, NPRA, Office of the Special Prosecutor, EOCO, and the National Intelligence Bureau to act on these demands.
Thank you.
Source: DailyDemocrat