The University Teachers Association of Ghana at the University of Ghana (UG-UTAG) has expressed strong disapproval of recent statements made by the National Security Minister, Albert Kan-Dapaah.
Speaking at a seminar titled “Impact of Disinformation on Electoral Integrity, Peace and Security in Africa” in Accra, the minister suggested that some individuals in academia, civil society, and the media were leveraging their influence to incite actions that could potentially disrupt the country through the dissemination of false information.
In response to these remarks, UG-UTAG voiced their concerns about the potential repercussions, emphasising that such comments could stifle the expression of dissenting viewpoints and curtail the fundamental right to free speech.
“The University of Ghana Branch of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UG-UTAG) has noted with concern some comments purportedly made by the National Security Minister, Hon. Albert Kan-Dapaah.
“According to the Honourable Minister, some identified individuals in academia (we believe, including UG-UTAG Members), civil society, and the media are leveraging their influence in society to incite a coup to destabilise the country through the spreading of misinformation and disinformation without adducing any evidence to support the claim.
“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 a culture of silence,” part of the statement dated October 20, read in part.
UG-UTAG underscored that effective prevention of coups and military interventions in politics hinges on the pillars of good governance, anti-corruption initiatives, responsible economic stewardship, and the proactive implementation of policies that benefit the less privileged.
According to their perspective, these actions can serve to narrow the divide between the affluent and the underprivileged, ultimately fostering the development of a robust middle class within society.
“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 statement added.