The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has officially commenced the 2026 Base Pay negotiations between the Government of Ghana and representatives of Organized Labour. This marks the beginning of a critical process that will determine the National Base Pay for public sector workers for the 2026 financial year.
The first consultative meeting, held on Friday, 31st October 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Ghana Employers Association Conference Room, brought together key stakeholders from the Government Team and Organized Labour. The meeting was convened under the directive of an official invitation signed by Dr. George Smith-Graham, the Acting Chief Executive of FWSC, and focused solely on discussions surrounding the 2026 Base Pay.
According to the FWSC, this engagement forms part of a broader effort by the government to ensure a transparent, inclusive, and fair process in determining wages for public sector employees. The Commission emphasized the importance of collaboration and open dialogue, aiming to build mutual understanding and trust among all negotiating parties.
Details from the First Meeting
During the opening session, Organized Labour presented its initial proposal for a 20% increase in the 2026 National Base Pay. However, reports indicate that this proposal was revised downward to 15% within the same meeting. The Government Team, in response, made a counter-offer of 2.5%, which was later adjusted to 5%.
While the meeting ended without a conclusive agreement, it signaled the start of what is expected to be a series of tough negotiations leading up to the final determination of the 2026 Base Pay. The FWSC expressed optimism that subsequent meetings will yield a fair and sustainable outcome that aligns with the government’s broader public sector pay policy and fiscal sustainability goals.
Reactions from Labour Unions
Following the first negotiation session, a section of labour unions expressed strong dissatisfaction with the handling of the discussions. In a press statement released on 3rd November 2025, several union leaders criticized the leadership of Organized Labour for what they described as weak negotiation tactics and lack of transparency.
The statement, jointly signed by Stephen Desu (Innovative Teachers), Isaac Donkoh (SSA-UoG), Harruna Rafik (SSA-UoG, UG-Korle Bu Branch), Daniel Kweku Obo Manuel (SSA-UoG, UniMAC Branch), Philip Kweku Odei (SSA-UoG, UG-Legon Branch), Benjamin Nkumash (TEWU of TUC, UG Branch), and Gilbert Ayitey (TUAAG, ATU Branch), accused Organized Labour of failing to consult adequately with various unions before presenting the proposal to government.
The unions described the 20% initial proposal — and its subsequent reduction to 15% — as “meagre” and “unreflective of current economic realities.” They argued that the high cost of living, rising taxes, and increased utility tariffs should have warranted a more robust demand of at least 50%.
The statement further alleged that Organized Labour had barred the media from covering post-meeting briefings, a move that unions say contradicts the principles of openness and accountability. “If there is nothing to hide, why stop the media from reporting on proceedings?” the unions questioned.
Concerns and Next Steps
The dissenting unions warned that if the final outcome of the negotiations fails to favour workers, they would reject the outcome and take necessary steps to defend the interests of their members. They reiterated that base pay decisions have long-term implications on workers’ pensions and future welfare, particularly for those under the Single Spine Salary Structure (SSSS).
Meanwhile, the FWSC has maintained its commitment to facilitating a constructive and transparent dialogue with all relevant stakeholders. The Commission believes that continued engagement will lead to a fair settlement that balances the needs of workers with the fiscal realities of the nation.
As Ghana prepares its 2026 budget, the outcome of these base pay negotiations remains highly anticipated, as it will directly affect the income levels of thousands of public sector workers across the country.
Stay tuned for updates as discussions progress between the Government of Ghana and Organized Labour on the 2026 National Base Pay.
Published By: Justice Donkoh | GESHub.org
