Eric Agbe-Carbonu, President of the Ghana National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), has pledged that the organization will no longer remain silent on critical national issues, emphasizing a commitment to advocacy and accountability in governance.
In a recent interview on Joy News’ PM Express with Evans Mensah, Agbe-Carbonu reiterated NAGRAT’s determination to speak out on matters affecting the nation.
Reflecting on the recent nationwide strike over the sale of SSNIT’s stake in hotels to public officials, he highlighted the necessity for organised labour to hold the government accountable.
“If yesterday we did not raise our voice, we want to assure everybody today moving forward, you will hear our voice on pertinent issues,” Agbe-Carbonu affirmed.
The strike action, initially launched to protest SSNIT’s plan to sell 60% shares in four hotels to a private firm linked to Food and Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong, was suspended recently.
The Trades Union Congress (TUC), representing organised labour, set a one-month ultimatum for SSNIT to address outstanding pension issues.
Agbe-Carbonu clarified that the objective was not to disrupt the country’s operations but to ensure transparency and fairness in governance.
“We never intended to hold the country hostage,” he stated. “Our aim is to address abuses of power and ensure that decisions benefit the public interest.”
Responding to criticism about the perceived silence on pressing national issues like illegal mining (‘galamsey’), Agbe-Carbonu pointed out that the underlying problems are often orchestrated by influential figures rather than those directly involved in illegal activities.
“It is the powerful people behind it, not the miners arrested in the gravel pits, who drive galamsey,” he emphasized, likening the situation to organized crime where higher-ups orchestrate illicit activities.
Agbe-Carbonu called on professional associations, including the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), and the media to unite in addressing challenges facing the nation.
“We urge the GBA, media, and all stakeholders to join our cause,” he urged. “This is about safeguarding the future of our country and ensuring accountability in all sectors.”
He concluded by reaffirming NAGRAT’s commitment to advocating for positive change and encouraged all Ghanaians to actively engage in shaping a better future for the nation.