Unionized staff of the Intercity State Transport Company are insisting that they will not allow the appointment of any person as Deputy Managing Director in charge of Operations.
They contend that what the company needs now are new buses to augment the dwindling fleet.
This follows a petition to the Chairman of the Board by the staff to among other things prevent the appointment since there already exist two Deputy Managing Directors.
A visit by 3news to the STC yard near Awudome cemetery revealed that staff have barricaded the office of the Deputy Managing Director and wrapped the entrance with red bands.
Notices have also been pasted at various points in the yard.
Below is the petition submitted to the Board:
INTERCITY STC JOINT STAFF UNION
May 27, 2024
The Board Chairman
Intercity STC Coaches Limited
Accra
Dear Sir,
PETITION AGAINST THE APPOINTMENT OF A NEW DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR TO ISTC.
The unionized staff of ISTC have noted the recent appointment of a new Deputy Managing Director, designated to fill the vacancy left by the former Deputy Managing Director for Operations.
The reduction of the deputy managing director positions from three to two is perceived as a beneficial measure, alleviating financial strain on the company.
ISTC has operated without a Deputy Managing Director for a considerable period, suggesting that the reduction in deputy managing directors will not adversely affect our operations.
It is imperative to emphasize the current challenges facing the company, particularly the dwindling fleet of operational buses. Presently, out of a total of 145 buses, only 39 are deemed roadworthy.
This predicament is attributed to the inferior quality of the Daewoo buses acquired in 2020, resulting in frequent repairs and maintenance issues.
Furthermore, we wish to draw attention to the outstanding provident fund contributions and other statutory deductions, which are significantly overdue:
1. Provident Fund arrears for about six years.
2. Tier 2 arrears totaling six months.
3. SSNIT deductions in arrears exceeding six million Ghana Cedis (GH¢6,000,000.00).
In light of these challenges and financial obligations, the company finds itself in a precarious position. Therefore, we respectfully request reconsideration of the recent appointment in the best interest of both the company and its employees.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
By Job Kwabena Laboja
