UTAG Stands Firm Amidst Internal Dissent Over Strike-Prof. Ransford Gyampo

The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has asserted that it will not permit any unrecognized minority group within its ranks to undermine the national decision for an indefinite strike. This strike aims to pressure the government to declare a state of emergency in the fight against illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey.”

A dissenting faction comprising 57 members—who do not represent the majority—cannot alter the decision of UTAG’s national council regarding the strike. UTAG President, Prof. Ransford Gyampo of the University of Ghana, emphasized their unified stance on the issue during an appearance on the Simpieso political talk show on Ahotor 92.3 FM, hosted by Emmanuel Martey (Alaska-De Don) in Accra.

Prof. Gyampo condemned the dissenting voices within UTAG, stating that they do not reflect the true interests of the association. He expressed his concern over their call to overturn the national decision.

In a related development, UTAG has responded to the breakaway group, which refers to itself as the “Silent Majority of UTAG.” This group has demanded an end to the ongoing strike, giving the national leadership a three-day ultimatum. They argue that since Organized Labour has halted its own actions following government commitments to address illegal mining, UTAG’s strike is now unwarranted.

In response, Prof. Gyampo clarified that UTAG will not engage publicly with the dissenting group’s demands. He emphasized the importance of maintaining unity, stating, “We won’t allow our front to be broken by anyone who isn’t part of us.” However, he extended an olive branch, offering to engage in private discussions to clarify the reasons behind the strike.

“It would be fratricidal for us to fight them publicly,” he said. “We will engage them to help them understand our concerns about the unfortunate behaviors of the TUC and CLossag leadership that led us to take industrial action.”

Prof. Gyampo reiterated that the indefinite strike remains in effect until the National Executive Committee (NEC) of UTAG decides otherwise.

In a formal statement regarding the dissenting group, Prof. Gyampo noted, “I have seen an unsigned petition from 57 individuals presented to UTAG National, along with a press conference held today. UTAG National will respond officially to clarify the situation and maintain the integrity of our front.”

He pointed out that of the 57 individuals, 36 are not university teachers. Many of those who are lecturers have publicly distanced themselves from the dissenting petition, indicating they did not consent to being part of it.

“It is inconceivable for 57 individuals, not all of whom are lecturers, to claim to represent a silent majority of lecturers while issuing ultimatums to nearly 3,000 university professors who voted to strike against illegal mining,” he stated.

Prof. Gyampo stressed that UTAG’s indefinite strike cannot be overturned by a minority and will continue until the NEC makes a different decision.