COMOG warns JUSAG strike is hurting vulnerable court users, appeals to Mahama

The Coalition of Muslim Organizations, Ghana (COMOG) has warned that the ongoing Judicial Service workers’ strike is worsening the difficulties faced by vulnerable court users, particularly people in police custody and families awaiting urgent court decisions.

The coalition said delays in bail applications, court appearances and hearings could have serious consequences for people whose liberty and welfare depend on timely judicial proceedings.

In a statement on Monday, November 9, 2026, COMOG appealed to the Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) to suspend its industrial action to allow court services to resume while negotiations continue.

“Every additional day of disruption deepens the distress of individuals and families who depend on the courts,” the statement said.

It warned that the impact of the strike extended beyond criminal cases, with delayed maintenance and custody matters potentially affecting children and dependent families.

The coalition also highlighted the disruption to civil, commercial, land and inheritance proceedings, saying the delays could prolong property disputes, constrain livelihoods and prevent litigants from obtaining financial relief.

It noted that litigants and witnesses could incur additional transport expenses, lose working time and travel long distances without receiving the services they require.

COMOG therefore urged the authorities to make appropriate arrangements for urgent cases involving people in custody, bail applications and other time-sensitive matters.

“These entitled to release under lawful court orders should be able to regain their freedom without avoidable administrative delay,” it said.

The coalition also called on the leadership and membership of JUSAG to consider the hardship confronting Ghanaians and approach negotiations with the President in good faith.

It said workers’ concerns over remuneration and conditions of service deserved serious attention and a lasting settlement supported by clear commitments and credible implementation timelines.

The strike, which began on November 2, 2026, has disrupted Judicial Service operations as JUSAG and the Senior Staff Association of the Judicial Service of Ghana (SSAJUG) push for the resolution of outstanding issues relating to their 2026 salary review, allowances and arrears.

Government has announced approval of new conditions of service and a schedule for paying the outstanding arrears, but the unions have maintained their industrial action amid unresolved demands.

COMOG said any resolution must protect workers’ rights while safeguarding the public’s access to justice.

“The hardship of workers and the suffering of court users both deserve a prompt and fair response,” the statement said.

It added that its appeal for presidential intervention was aimed at resolving the employment dispute and restoring services while respecting judicial independence and the authority of the courts over individual cases.