The Secretary-General of the Ghana Federation of Labour, Abraham Koomson, has announced plans to scale back his participation in the 2026 May Day Parade, citing concerns over fairness, inclusivity, and decision-making within organised labour.

Speaking on Ahotor FM on Saturday, April 25, Mr. Koomson acknowledged that preparations by the National May Day Planning Committee are far advanced but expressed dissatisfaction with the structure guiding key decisions.

He argued that the committee’s role should be limited to technical and administrative coordination, rather than determining critical issues such as leadership roles and the selection of speakers.

According to him, such decisions must be based on broad consensus among all labour groups, rather than a narrow process.

Mr. Koomson emphasised that Ghana’s labour landscape has evolved significantly since the passage of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), which recognises multiple labour centres within the organised labour system.

He noted that while the Trades Union Congress historically served as the central voice of labour under earlier legislation, the current framework requires a more inclusive approach to national labour events.

The GFL Secretary-General rejected the idea that decisions taken solely by TUC-affiliated unions should be binding on independent unions and other labour centres, insisting on a more representative and collective process.

He further disclosed that an earlier agreement reached during a meeting of Organised Labour leaders on April 23—aimed at developing a unified and inclusive May Day programme involving the TUC, GFL, and other groups such as the Ghana National Association of Teachers, Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association, and Civil and Local Government Staff Association Ghana—has not been honoured.

Mr. Koomson noted that some TUC executives have maintained their position to lead and address the May Day event, a move he believes undermines efforts toward inclusivity.

He clarified that his decision is not intended to disrupt the celebration but rather to highlight the need for fairness, legitimacy, and institutional balance within organised labour.

While attributing the tensions to the stance of some TUC executives, he added that not all leaders within the Congress share the same view.

Mr. Koomson reaffirmed his commitment to unity within Organised Labour and expressed readiness to continue engaging stakeholders to promote a more inclusive and cohesive labour movement.