UG SRC elections in limbo over claims of Dean’s interference
Concerns have been raised about possible interference from the Dean of Student Affairs in the 2024 University of Ghana Students’ Representative Council (UGSRC) elections, casting doubt on the credibility of the electoral process.
A formal letter sent to the Dean of Student Affairs on August 2 by the Electoral Commission of the UGSRC highlighted their concerns regarding certain administrative decisions that deviated from established protocols and security recommendations.
Initially, the vetting of candidates was set for July 30, 2024, but was postponed to August 11, 2024, following security concerns raised by the Vice Dean of Students Dr. Charles Wiafe Akenten, based on advice from the Ghana Police Service and University Security.
However, the Dean of Student Affairs later instructed that the vetting take place within 24 hours of a meeting on August 1, disregarding the earlier security advice.
The EC’s Public Relations Officer, Mudasir Braimah, pointed out several issues stemming from the sudden rescheduling, including conflicts arising from the short notice and the Dean allegedly prioritizing aspirants’ opinions over the suggestions made by the Electoral Commission during subsequent meetings.
There are growing apprehensions that the Dean’s actions may indicate a bias towards specific candidates, potentially compromising the integrity of the vetting process.
The EC firmly opposes any interference in the electoral process and emphasizes the importance of the Dean of Student Affairs maintaining impartiality and abstaining from involvement in student politics.
In their letter, the Electoral Commission expressed their resolve to resist any attempts to circumvent lawful procedures under the guise of addressing non-existent issues, thereby upholding their mandate.
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