The Central Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Richard Kofi Asiedu, has accused the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) of attempting to tarnish his reputation.

According to him, the commission “is being used as an instrument for mischief to serve political interests.”

His comments follow a recent GTEC statement declaring that the “Dr” title he uses—also as CEO of St. Andrews Group of Schools and Companies—is honorary and directing him to desist from using it. This comes months after a similar controversy in July 2025, when GTEC challenged his use of the title “Professor.” At the time, Mr. Asiedu admitted that the professorship was honorary and stopped using it.

GTEC insists that Mr. Asiedu lacks the academic qualifications to hold a doctoral title. But in response, he maintained that he legitimately earned a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree between 2009 and 2012 at Atlantic International University in Hawaii, USA.

“His doctorate is purely academic, and he possesses all relevant documents, including transcripts, to verify this qualification. Mr. Asiedu has nothing to hide. All his academic qualifications and honorary recognitions can be independently verified with the respective institutions that awarded them,” a statement issued on his behalf said.

He further questioned why GTEC proceeded to make its announcement despite his earlier request to submit supporting documents.

He explained that delays in producing the documents were due to an ongoing legal dispute with his former spouse, who currently has custody of them.

Expressing disappointment at the commission’s stance, he stressed that he had demonstrated good faith and cooperation in efforts to resolve the matter.