The Medical Laboratory Professional Workers’ Union (MELPWU) has issued a strongly worded press statement expressing concern over ongoing labour and governance issues at the Central Medical Laboratory of Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH).
In a statement dated May 15, 2026, the union said uncertainty surrounding the laboratory’s leadership and administrative arrangements continues to threaten patient care, staff morale, accreditation standards, and the quality of laboratory services at Ghana’s premier referral hospital.
MELPWU confirmed that a stakeholder review meeting initially scheduled by the Ministry of Health had been postponed to allow a Technical Review Committee to complete and submit its final report by May 18, 2026. The union proposed reconvening discussions on May 19.
Among the union’s key demands is the immediate reinstatement of Dr. Michael Amo Omari, whose appointment as Head of Laboratory Services at KBTH was allegedly revoked improperly. MELPWU also called for disciplinary action against Dr. Asare Offei over public comments it says undermined confidence in laboratory results produced by the Central Laboratory.
The union further demanded the reversal of what it described as “unapproved and irregular alterations” to the leadership structure and reporting lines within the Medical Laboratory Service. It also rejected the continuation of an interim administrative arrangement that expired on May 12, 2026, arguing that its extension threatens governance and operational stability.
MELPWU stressed that the dispute is rooted in professional and administrative concerns rather than personal or political disagreements. The union cited issues including due process, professional integrity, transparency in decision-making, and recognition of medical laboratory professionals within healthcare leadership systems.
The statement also rejected claims that Medical Laboratory Scientists at KBTH had blocked physicians from accessing laboratory services or engaged in intimidation. According to the union, laboratory scientists continue to work collaboratively with doctors in patient care, research, and training.
MELPWU acknowledged ongoing interventions by the Ministry of Health and the National Labour Commission but maintained concerns about the continuation of the interim leadership arrangement beyond its original mandate.
The union concluded by urging members to remain calm, professional, and united while stakeholder engagements continue.