Professor Ransford Gyampo, President of the University of Ghana chapter of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG-UG), has issued a stern warning to the government, asserting that attempts to undermine UTAG’s unity will fail.

In an interview on TV3 on Saturday, October 19, Prof. Gyampo alleged that top government officials and members of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) have been secretly approaching UTAG members, urging them to suspend their ongoing strike.

The strike, initiated by UTAG-UG, protests the government’s perceived inaction in combating illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey. Prof. Gyampo reaffirmed UTAG’s commitment to continuing the strike, despite government pressure.

Prof. Gyampo revealed that deputy ministers and party leaders have been trying to break UTAG’s unity. “I was on the phone when you were talking to them, I was listening to you, you didn’t know, and so I’m telling you, you can do all manner of things to divide and break the front of some labour unions, but not UTAG.”

Prof. Gyampo also criticized the Akuffo Addo government, labeling it “undemocratic.” He argued that the government has:

– Weakened the legislature
– Weakened the judiciary
– Silenced civil society
– Silenced eminent voices
– Divided labor unions

“This government will go down in history as the most undemocratic government in the history of Ghana’s self-republic,” Prof. Gyampo stated.

Despite government pressure, UTAG remains resolute in its demands for action against galamsey. Prof. Gyampo’s message to the government was clear: “We are still on strike; you can go to hell.”

The ongoing strike has sparked national debate, with many Ghanaians calling for urgent action against illegal mining.