A significant development has emerged within the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), as a faction identifying themselves as the ‘Silent Majority’ has issued a three-day ultimatum to the association’s national leadership, demanding an immediate cessation of the ongoing strike.
This internal dissent stems from the group’s belief that there is no justification for continuing the strike, particularly in light of Organised Labour’s decision to call off its industrial action following government assurances to tackle illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey.
During a press conference held on Tuesday, October 15, the dissatisfied members of UTAG expressed their frustration and disappointment with the ongoing strike.
They argued that the strike lacks sufficient justification, especially considering recent developments and the government’s commitments to addressing the galamsey menace. Professor Isaac Boadi, a senior academic and spokesperson for the aggrieved members, addressed the media, emphasizing the need for UTAG’s leadership to reassess the situation and adopt a more strategic and thoughtful approach to handling the ongoing negotiations with the government.
According to Professor Boadi, the group is calling on UTAG’s national leadership to take immediate action and call off the strike by Friday, October 18. Their primary demand is for the strike to be terminated, and for a team to be constituted to monitor the government’s implementation of its roadmap to address galamsey.
This demand is predicated on the understanding that Organised Labour had previously announced its intention to embark on an industrial action but subsequently called it off after receiving assurances from the government that the pertinent issues would be addressed in a timely manner.
The ‘Silent Majority’ believes that UTAG’s continued strike is unwarranted, given the progress made by the government in addressing the concerns of Organised Labour.
By calling off their strike, Organised Labour demonstrated its willingness to engage with the government and work towards a resolution. In contrast, UTAG’s persistence in continuing the strike has led to growing frustration among some members, who feel that the association’s leadership is no longer representing their interests.
The ultimatum issued by the ‘Silent Majority’ has significant implications for UTAG and its relationship with the government. If the national leadership fails to respond to the group’s demands, it may lead to further divisions within the association and potentially undermine the strike’s effectiveness. Conversely, if UTAG’s leadership heeds the call and terminates the strike, it may be seen as a victory for the ‘Silent Majority’ and a step towards resolving the ongoing impasse.
As the deadline approaches, all eyes will be on UTAG’s national leadership to see how they respond to the ‘Silent Majority’s’ demands. Will they choose to continue the strike, or will they opt for a more conciliatory approach and call off the industrial action? The outcome will have far-reaching consequences for the academic community, the government, and the future of Ghana’s education sector.
