JUSAG threatens industrial action over delayed salary review for judicial service staff

Story by: Regina Bless

The Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) has notified the National Labour Commission of its intention to embark on industrial action over delays in the review of salaries and related allowances for Judicial Service staff for 2026.

In a letter dated October 23, 2026, JUSAG expressed concern over the government’s failure to approve and implement the revised salaries despite repeated appeals to the relevant authorities.

According to the association, the salary review process began after the previous review expired in December 2025. JUSAG subsequently petitioned the Judicial Council, which completed its assessment and submitted recommendations to the President for consideration in line with Article 149 of the 1992 Constitution and the Judicial Service (Terms and Conditions of Service) Regulations, 2025 (C.I. 141).

The association said it had made several attempts to expedite the process, including letters to the Judicial Council in January and September 2026, as well as appeals at various conferences and official gatherings. However, it claims that these efforts have yielded no concrete results.

JUSAG further noted that while other public sector workers had received their revised 2026 salaries in January, Judicial Service staff were still awaiting approval and payment in October.

The association warned that the prolonged delay had heightened tensions and lowered morale among its members, particularly as organised labour had already begun negotiations on the 2027 base pay.

Despite the situation, JUSAG said it had continued to urge its members to exercise restraint, mindful of the potential impact of industrial action on justice delivery and national security.

The association is therefore calling for urgent action from the government and relevant authorities to approve the recommended salary adjustments and ensure payment of the revised salaries and allowances.