GRNMA apologises to Health Minister over Ridge Hospital incident
The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has rendered an unqualified apology to the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, following what it described as regrettable media attacks on his person in the wake of the Ridge Hospital assault incident.
The apology was tendered during a meeting on Wednesday, 3 September 2025, after weeks of public uproar sparked by an alleged assault on nurses at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital’s Emergency Department on 17 August.
The confrontation, which reportedly involved individuals who had accompanied a patient, was captured on video and widely circulated on social media, drawing condemnation from professional bodies and the public alike.
In their engagement with the Minister, GRNMA leaders expressed regret over how the matter was handled publicly and pledged closer collaboration with the Ministry going forward.
Mr Akandoh, who accepted the apology in good faith, urged the Association to prioritise dialogue and constructive engagement with government in addressing the concerns of healthcare professionals.
He reaffirmed his commitment to building stronger partnerships with nurses and midwives to enhance service delivery.
Highlighting key achievements in the health sector, the Minister pointed to the integration of 13,500 nurses onto the government payroll, the establishment of the Ghana Medical Training Fund, and the retooling of hospitals and clinics across the country.
He also cited the clearance of arrears on nursing training allowances and NHIS claims, as well as the government’s decision to absorb 50 per cent of admission fees for nursing training institutions.
“Government is determined to ensure the full implementation of the collective bargaining agreement to improve conditions of service for nurses and midwives, while pushing forward reforms aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage,” Mr Akandoh assured.
The GRNMA leadership also presented a set of pressing concerns affecting healthcare workers, calling for swift government intervention to sustain morale and improve patient care.
Among those present at the meeting were former GRNMA President Alice Darkoa Asare-Allotey, immediate past President Dr Krobea Asante, current President Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo and General Secretary Dr David Tenkorang-Twum.
Meanwhile, the Ridge Assault Investigative Committee has begun reviewing video evidence submitted in connection with the incident.
The footage showed a verbal altercation between Mr Ralph St Williams, some motor riders and hospital staff. However, no video or eyewitness testimony confirmed a physical assault.
The alleged victim, Ms Rejoice Tsotso Bortei, a rotation nurse, reported pain in her left hand the following day. Medical records confirmed there were no fractures or dislocations, and she was treated with pain relief and psychological support.
The Ministry of Health has since appealed to the public and stakeholders to remain calm as investigations continue, assuring that government remains committed to addressing grievances in the health sector while safeguarding the welfare of healthcare professionals.
