KATH Doctors Launch Indefinite Strike Over CEO’s Suspension

Doctors at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) have begun an indefinite strike in protest against the suspension of the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, describing the action as unfair and unlikely to resolve the institution’s challenges.

The industrial action was declared by the Komfo Anokye Doctors Association following an emergency meeting on June 5, 2026, where members reviewed developments at the hospital, including severe congestion at the Emergency Department and the subsequent suspension of the CEO.

In a letter addressed to the Chairman of the KATH Board, the association expressed concern that management’s efforts to address overcrowding and maintain safe healthcare delivery had instead led to disciplinary action against the hospital’s leadership.

According to the doctors, the temporary suspension of new emergency admissions and collaboration with nearby health facilities were necessary measures intended to safeguard patients and reduce the risk of preventable deaths amid overwhelming pressure on the hospital’s resources.

The association noted that KATH, which serves as a major referral centre for the middle and northern parts of Ghana, continues to face significant infrastructure and capacity challenges despite increasing patient numbers.

Doctors argued that the current difficulties stem from long-standing weaknesses within the healthcare system and require broader policy reforms and investment rather than punitive actions against hospital administrators.

Following discussions, members unanimously condemned the suspension of the CEO, stating that the decision fails to address the root causes of the crisis and could negatively affect efforts to improve healthcare services at the facility.

As a result, the association resolved to begin a total withdrawal of medical services from 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026, with the strike expected to continue until specific demands are met.

Among their key demands is the review and reversal of the CEO’s suspension. The doctors are also calling on the KATH Board to develop clear protocols for managing situations where the hospital’s emergency capacity is exceeded.

In addition, KADA is requesting that the Ministry of Health provide clear timelines for the full operationalisation of Sewua Hospital and Afari Military Hospital.

The association is further demanding timelines for the retooling of KATH and other healthcare facilities across the Ashanti Region to help reduce pressure on the teaching hospital and improve healthcare delivery.