The University of Cape Coast branch of the University Teachers Association (UTAG) has raised concerns over the ongoing leadership crisis and external interference in the institution's governance.

In a press statement, the council expressed alarm over several issues that have plagued the university, including attempts to prematurely remove key office holders, such as the Vice-Chancellor.

"Since the inception of the current Governing Council, the University of Cape Coast has been in bad press," the LEC stated, citing concerns about decisions related to appointments and legal battles. Among the issues highlighted were decisions regarding the appointment of the Registrar and Director of Human Resources, as well as the university’s representation in court concerning a writ of summons against the Vice-Chancellor and the institution.

UTAG UCC particularly condemned, "the persistent and unlawful interference by certain parastatal bodies and their agents in the attempted removal of office holders of the University while the matter is sub judice." They emphasized that these actions violate the UCC Law 1992 (PNDC Law 278), UCC Statutes 2016, and undermine the university's stability.

The statement said that some external bodies and individuals are attempting to force the Vice-Chancellor out of office before the court hears the substantive matter. "It is clear to us that these interferences are calculated attempts to destabilize the University’s leadership and create chaos," the statement read.

UTAG averred that "We call on the members of the Governing Council to stand their ground and ensure that the dictates of the UCC Statutes are protected and upheld," they said, warning that any attempts to unlawfully remove any university officer would be met with strong opposition.

The association also urged the university’s council to respect the ongoing judicial proceedings, adding that "any actions taken outside the purview of the law and the University’s Statutes are unacceptable and will lead to instability in the University."

In their plea for peace-building efforts, the council called on key figures, including the President and Vice-President of Ghana, the Chancellor of UCC, and traditional leaders, to intervene in the crisis. "Their intervention is necessary to prevent further damage to the University’s reputation and functioning," the statement added.

The association further reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the university's governance and warned that it would resort to demonstrations or strikes if the situation continues. "We will use every legitimate and legal means at our disposal, including demonstrations and strikes, to resist the unlawful removal of any office holder of the University, including the Vice-Chancellor," they asserted.

The statement concluded with a call for calm among all stakeholders, urging them to allow due processes to take their course while ensuring the university's integrity and autonomy are preserved.

Below is the full statement by UTAG UCC branch.