Doctors at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) began an indefinite strike on Saturday, June 6, 2026. The Komfo Anokye Doctors Association (KADA) announced the complete withdrawal of services. This action stops all work at the hospital from 6:00 a.m. onwards. The strike is a protest against the suspension of the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer.
The doctors held an emergency meeting on Thursday, June 5, 2026. They declared the strike after this meeting. The industrial action arose from disagreements regarding the Emergency Department’s severe congestion. Hospital management tried to manage extreme patient numbers. These measures included pausing new emergency admissions. They also coordinated with nearby health facilities. Doctors supported these steps as vital for patient safety. However, they felt the CEO was punished for these actions.
This situation highlights ongoing strain on Ghana’s healthcare system. KATH is the main referral hospital for the middle and northern parts of Ghana. It faces significant infrastructure limits. Patient numbers continue to grow. This reflects long-standing systemic issues. These problems require serious policy and infrastructure upgrades. Punitive actions against leaders trying to manage the consequences are not the solution. Previous reports show other hospitals facing similar pressures. The Health Minister’s decision to suspend the CEO is seen as unfounded by the doctors.
In a notice to the Board Chairman, KADA stated its demands. They want the CEO’s suspension reviewed and reversed. They also seek clear board policies for managing the emergency department’s capacity limits. Explicit guidance on patient overflow and restricted admissions is needed. Furthermore, the Ministry of Health must provide timelines. These timelines are for the operationalization of Sewua Hospital and Afari Military Hospital. They are also for retooling KATH and other Ashanti Region hospitals. This will help reduce KATH’s burden.
The strike will continue until these demands are met. KADA stated the action aims to raise national awareness. It focuses on patient and caregiver safety. Clinical governance and professional accountability are key. The sustainability of healthcare services at Ghana's second-largest teaching hospital is at stake. Doctors plan to engage the public and stakeholders. They want an amicable resolution to prevent further disruption. The Ministry of Health and the KATH Board are urged to act quickly.