No Teacher Died During GES Picketing – Education Minister Refutes Claims in Parliament
The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has categorically dismissed reports suggesting that a teacher died during the June 23 protest by newly trained teachers at the Ghana Education Service (GES) headquarters in Accra.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, June 26, the minister described the claims made by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin as “despicable lies,” stating there was no death, injury, or harm during the picketing.
“Mr Speaker, these are despicable lies that someone died. I challenge him to produce any dead body that he may have in his possession or in possession of any person,” the minister firmly stated.
🧑🏫 Dialogue with Teacher Representatives
Minister Iddrisu clarified that he had personally met with leaders of the aggrieved group, including their president, Eric Darfoor, to listen to their concerns.
According to the minister, although the teachers have received official appointment letters and are actively working in their assigned schools, many have yet to receive their staff identification numbers—a critical requirement for salary processing.
“Their main concerns will be addressed as soon as the Minister of Finance issues financial clearance,” he assured.
📢 Background to the Protest
On Monday, June 23, 2025, newly trained teachers from the 2022 batch of Colleges of Education gathered at the GES headquarters to demand:
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Immediate release of their staff ID numbers
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Payment of 10 months’ salary arrears
The teachers alleged that their earlier petition had been ignored, prompting them to wait at the GES office for more than two hours without response.
The police later intervened, issuing a three-minute ultimatum for the group to vacate the premises. When they did not comply, officers forcefully dispersed the demonstrators. Despite the tense scene, no injuries were recorded.
✅ GES Promises Resolution
Following the protest, the group suspended further action after receiving assurances from the GES Public Relations Office. The spokesperson for the teachers confirmed that:
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A firm commitment had been made to resolve the issue
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Salary payments are expected by the end of July 2025
The Ministry of Education has reiterated its commitment to ensuring fair and timely treatment of all newly posted teachers and urged patience as steps are taken to resolve the situation.
“We are working closely with all relevant ministries to ensure our teachers are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve,” Minister Iddrisu concluded.