The Union of Trainee Nurses and Midwives, Ghana (UTNMG) is taking a bold stance against the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) ahead of the upcoming elections. Citing 19 months of unpaid allowances, the union members feel neglected and are threatening to vote against the NPP.
This decision comes after the government, led by President Akufo-Addo, has allegedly refused to provide the necessary financial support, pushing the trainee nurses and midwives into hardship. The union sees this as a betrayal and is now using its collective voice to demand change.
President of the Union of Trainee Nurses and Midwives, Ghana Agbeti Robert, has issued a stern warning to the government regarding its consistent failure to pay allowances to trainee nurses and midwives. Speaking on Yese No Sen on November 15, 2024, he emphasized that the government’s broken promises will no longer be tolerated.
He stressed that the trainees will hold politicians accountable for their neglect, and the outcome of the 2024 elections will reflect this. The Union is frustrated with the government’s inaction, citing 19 months of unpaid allowances, which has pushed trainees into financial hardship.
“Approximately 35% of trainees have never received any allowances at all, excluding the current level 100s. The arrears range from 1 month to 19 months, with the year of completion varying from 2020 to 2024,” according to a statement published by the union.
Agbeti Robert also highlighted the disparity in allowances paid to teacher trainees compared to health sector trainees, questioning the government’s commitment to fairness and equity.
The Union demands prompt payment of allowances and reforms to reduce fees and make feeding optional.
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