GES MUST SANCTION AND CONDEMN THE BUSSING OF STUDENTS TO THE CAMPAIGN LAUNCH OF VICTOR SMITH

The Committee for Social Advocacy deems it sufficiently proper to record a solemn protest against the bussing of students to the ceremony marking the launch of political campaign of Mr. Victor Smith the Eastern Regional Minister.

The launching of the political campaign by the regional minister to contest the December 2012 Parliamentary Elections was not a national ceremony or did not seek to promote any national interest. Therefore on what basis did the headmasters of the schools that were involved force the students to participate in such programme?

The students, just like every ordinary citizen of Ghana have the freedom of association whether political or otherwise. Many of the students in the Senior High Schools are registered voters with various political leanings and sympathies. To force many of such students to participate in the campaign launch of the NDC parliamentary candidate was unacceptable and constitutes an infringement on the natural and political rights of the students.

We do not believe parents sent their wards to schools to be used by one desperate politician to achieve his selfish and parochial political interest. We urge parents whose wards are in those schools to condemn such acts.

This action by the authorities of the schools involved we are sure contravenes the rules and regulations of GES. The heads of such schools have set bad precedence in the service. The Committee for Social Advocacy expects the Director of Ghana Education Service to condemn and sanction headmasters and any other persons involved in this.

It is our hope that the Ghana Education Service will not ignore this important issue and act with exigency.

Thank you.

James Mckeown
Lead Advocate
(0249334864)