Doctors Knew Better – Political Analyst Declares KATH Strike Illegal, Backs CEO Suspension
By Maurice Otoo
Political Analyst Peter Tekpeh has criticized the ongoing doctors’ strike at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), describing the industrial action as unlawful and contrary to the ethical obligations of medical professionals, despite acknowledging that the doctors may have legitimate grievances.
Speaking on the controversy via a Zoom interview on Kessben TV’s Digest show, Tekpeh argued that essential service providers have increasingly resorted to strike actions even though such actions are restricted under Ghana’s labor laws.
“Apart from security agencies, all the essential workers have been embarking on strike, although it’s not legal,” he stated.
He cautioned against the politicization of critical public institutions, warning that it could encourage more frequent industrial action.
“If you politicize essential institutions, it will embolden them to declare a strike at any time,” he said.
Tekpeh further insisted that medical practitioners are bound by professional ethics that discourage strike actions, especially when patient care is at stake.
“The doctors know they are not supposed to go on strike per their own code of conduct and ethics. What happened in KATH shouldn’t have warranted a strike action, though they had genuine concerns,” he argued.
He urged stakeholders to exercise restraint and carefully assess decisions affecting vital public services.
On the suspension of the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, Tekpeh threw his support behind the Ministry’s decision, saying disciplinary action was justified if the CEO acted without ministerial approval.
“If the CEO took a decision to close the facility without the consent of the Minister, then the sanction is in the right order, and it’s a serious issue,” he said.
He added that the incident highlights the need for stronger administrative training for heads of public institutions.
The CEO must be taken to proper training in handling public institutions. He did not respect the Minister,” Tekpeh asserted.
His remarks come amid growing debate over the KATH impasse and follow calls by Hon. Abdalla Bandah for the completion of Agenda 111 health projects and stricter enforcement of labor laws governing essential service workers.
