JUSAG cites pay disparities, working conditions in defence of strike

The General Secretary of the Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG), Abdulai Yakubu, has cited disparities in pay and working conditions as the reasons for the ongoing strike by judicial workers. Speaking on JoyNews' The Pulse, Mr Yakubu highlighted the financial struggles faced by some workers, with many unable to afford transportation to and from work.

He also pointed out the significant gap between what judicial workers are legally entitled to and what they actually receive as take-home pay. For instance, an employee entitled to GH¢3,000 may only receive around GH¢1,500 as their actual pay. Mr Yakubu questioned why judicial workers need to negotiate for benefits and remuneration that are already stipulated by law.

He also emphasized the strict professional standards required of judicial service employees, including prohibitions on accepting gifts, engaging in partisan politics, and adhering to a specific dress code. Despite these high standards, Mr Yakubu argued that the remuneration provided to these workers does not match the level of responsibility and integrity expected of them.

He questioned why judicial service employees, who face stringent ethical requirements, seem to struggle more in securing their entitlements compared to workers in other public institutions, citing the Parliamentary Service and the Office of the President as examples.