UG-UTAG urges gov’t to fight corruption, manage economy properly to secure Ghana’s peace

UG-UTAG Secretary, Prof. Ransford Gyampo

The University of Ghana branch of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UG-UTAG) has issued a press release to emphasise that it does not support a coup in Ghana.

The release has been issued after the Minister for National Security, Albert Kan-Dapaah accused members of academia, Civil Society Organisations, and the media of coup-mongering comments.

Speaking at a conference on the Impact of Disinformation on Electoral Integrity, Peace, and Security in Africa, the Minister said following the recent coup in Niger he has observed how “certain individuals in academia, civil society, and the media, from what I have observed have been propagating false narratives in support of a coup or military rule.”

The National Security Minister continued, “These actors have gained substantial followings on social media leveraging the influence to disseminate misinformation that threatens our nation’s peace and also stability, especially as we approach the critical December 2024 general election and this is a matter of serious concern.

“Misinformation, whether intentional or inadvertent, from these individuals because they are influential poses a significant threat to Ghana’s stability.”

Having its members in academia, UG-UTAG in its release said it takes exception to the allegation and condemns it in no uncertain terms.

“We do not support any individual or groups calling for a coup in Ghana. But at the same time, we won’t be gagged from speaking our minds forcefully on all important national issues. We would fiercely resist any attempt, including political commentary, that has the potency to usher us into the dark days of culture of silence,” part of the UG-UTAG release said.

In the release, UG-UTAG admonished government to fight against corruption and manage the Ghanaian economy properly to safeguard the peace and stability in the country.

“The antidote to coups and military interventions in politics, are good governance, fight against corruption, proper management of the economy, and the implementation of proactive pro-poor policies, that can help bridge the gap between the poor and the rich, as well as create a vibrant Middle Class in society.

“While we call on the government to imbibe the antidotes listed above to secure our peace and promote political stability, we also ask for a national dialogue and conversation on how to guard against the threats of coups and safeguard our peace in Ghana,” the UG-UTAG concluded.