This decision comes despite Organised Labour's suspension of a planned strike following the government's pledge to address the issue.
In a referendum held on Wednesday, 9th October, UTAG members voted overwhelmingly in favour of the strike, with 77.95% (2,153 votes) supporting the motion, 21.98% (607 votes) opposing, and 0.07% (2 votes) abstaining.
The National Executive Council (NEC) of UTAG unanimously invoked Article XIX, Clause 5 of its constitution, declaring an immediate and indefinite strike across all 15 UTAG branches.
In a statement, UTAG instructed its members to comply with the strike until the government formally announces a nationwide ban on all mining and prospecting activities in protected areas, including forest reserves, farmlands, and water bodies. "All members are directed to comply with this decision until the government formally announces a nationwide ban on mining and prospecting activities in protected areas, including forest reserves, farmlands, and water," the statement read.