Coalition of Unpaid Teachers Declares Boycott of 2024 Elections Over Unpaid Salaries and Arrears

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The Coalition of Unpaid Teachers and Arrears-Ghana (CUPTA) has announced its decision to boycott the upcoming Presidential and Parliamentary elections scheduled for December 7, 2024.

The group’s decision stems from the government’s prolonged inability to address their concerns regarding unpaid salaries, outstanding arrears, and the issuance of staff IDs for its members.

In a press release dated November 25, 2024, CUPTA expressed disappointment at the government’s lack of response to their plight, which they said has caused significant financial distress to their members and families.

“For several months, teachers have been waiting for our hard-earned salaries and arrears. The government’s failure to respond to our issues has resulted in significant financial hardship,” the statement emphasized.

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The coalition stated that their boycott of the elections is not only a demonstration of their dissatisfaction but also a call to action for all teachers to unite in demanding fair treatment. “We urge all teachers in solidarity to support our stand in demanding fair treatment,” the release stated.

CUPTA further urged the government to take immediate action, insisting that their demands were not for special treatment but for basic respect and fairness. They warned that until their salaries and arrears are paid and staff IDs are issued to their members, they would maintain their position of non-participation in the electoral process.

This unprecedented move highlights growing unrest within Ghana’s education sector, as unpaid salaries and unresolved issues have continued to affect teachers’ morale and livelihoods. The coalition has called on all media houses and stakeholders to amplify their concerns, urging the government to address these grievances promptly to prevent further disruption.

As the 2024 elections draw near, this announcement by CUPTA adds a new dimension to the national conversation, with potential implications for voter turnout and teacher-government relations in the future.

Check out the statement below: