NDC Youth Wing Condemns NPP, Headmasters for Busing SHS Students to Night Rallies
The Youth Wing of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has strongly condemned what it describes as a disturbing trend of Senior High School (SHS) students being bused to political rallies organized by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). The group expressed outrage over reports that these activities often occur late at night, disrupting students' academic schedules and exposing them to potential risks.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, the National Youth Organizer of the NDC, George Opare Addo, called out the NPP for exploiting vulnerable students for political gain. He accused some headmasters and school authorities of colluding with party officials to mobilize students under the guise of extracurricular activities.
“The practice of coercing students into attending political rallies, especially at odd hours, is not only unethical but also a blatant abuse of authority. These students are minors, and their education should take precedence over political expediency,” Opare Addo said.
The NDC Youth Wing questioned the role of the Ghana Education Service (GES) in addressing this issue. They alleged that the GES has turned a blind eye to these activities, raising concerns about the institution's independence and ability to safeguard students' welfare.
Parents and guardians, the Youth Wing noted, have also expressed growing anxiety over the safety of their children. Many worry about the long hours students spend on buses traveling to and from these events, often in poorly supervised conditions.
The statement also called on the Ministry of Education to investigate these incidents and hold school heads accountable for their involvement. The NDC emphasized that schools are meant to be apolitical and should focus on providing quality education rather than becoming tools for political campaigns.
“The NPP must desist from this reckless behavior. If they have lost touch with the electorate, the solution is not to manipulate innocent students but to focus on addressing the pressing issues facing Ghanaians,” the statement added.
In response, the NPP has dismissed the allegations, describing them as baseless and politically motivated. A spokesperson for the party insisted that any student participation in rallies is voluntary and not coerced.
However, civil society organizations have joined the NDC in expressing concern. Groups like the Child Rights International have urged stakeholders to ensure that students' rights are protected and that political parties refrain from exploiting young people for their campaigns.
The NDC Youth Wing concluded its statement by warning that it would organize protests and take legal action if the practice continues. They reiterated their commitment to protecting the educational rights and safety of Ghanaian students.
As Election 2024 approaches, this issue has sparked widespread debate about the ethical boundaries of political mobilization and the need for stricter oversight of student involvement in non-academic activities.
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