Credential Controversy: GTEC Accused of Overreach in Case Against Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah

Fierce Legal Showdown Between Dr. Grace Ayensu Danquah and GTEC Over Credential Dispute

A storm is brewing in Ghana’s academic and political arena as renowned medical doctor and parliamentary candidate, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, faces off with the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) over what her legal team has described as “institutional overreach and procedural impropriety.”

The controversy escalated after GTEC allegedly wrote a letter to the Chief of Staff at the Office of the President regarding Dr. Danquah’s academic and professional credentials without her consent or notification. The letter reportedly questioned aspects of her educational qualifications, which Dr. Danquah and her lawyers say have already been verified by recognized international medical and academic bodies.

How It Started

Sources indicate that GTEC initiated a review into Dr. Danquah’s credentials following her nomination and rising public prominence as a political figure. GTEC, mandated to ensure the authenticity of tertiary degrees and professional licenses in Ghana, began reviewing her academic history, particularly her foreign medical qualifications.

However, Dr. Danquah’s legal team asserts that the Commission’s approach was biased from the start. They contend that GTEC bypassed standard verification procedures and instead chose to secretly communicate with the presidency regarding her eligibility.

The Letter to the Chief of Staff

The turning point in the standoff came when GTEC sent a formal letter to the Chief of Staff. According to Dr. Danquah’s lawyers, the Commission did so without giving her the opportunity to provide clarification or respond to any alleged discrepancies. The contents of that letter hinted at doubts regarding the authenticity of parts of her academic portfolio, raising concerns about whether she was qualified to hold certain roles or positions.

Her lawyers have described this act as a clear abuse of administrative power, arguing that GTEC’s action constitutes a violation of her right to fair hearing and due process.

Accusations From Dr. Danquah’s Camp

Dr. Danquah’s legal representatives have come out strongly, accusing GTEC of:

• Institutional overreach – acting beyond their mandate by sending unverified claims to the Chief of Staff.
  
  

• Bias and unfairness – claiming that the Commission showed prejudice and did not allow for a transparent process.
  
  

• Defamation and impropriety – arguing that the Commission’s actions have damaged her reputation, especially in the middle of her political career.
  
  

They have since issued a formal protest letter and are reportedly considering legal action against GTEC if the Commission fails to retract and apologize.

GTEC’s Position

GTEC has defended its actions, stating that it operates under a legal obligation to verify qualifications used by individuals in institutions or public service. They argue that their correspondence with state authorities was procedural and falls within their regulatory powers to advise or caution the government if any credentials appear questionable.

However, critics have argued that GTEC’s process lacked transparency and failed to adhere to natural justice standards, particularly since Dr. Danquah was never consulted or given the chance to present original copies or supporting documents.

Public Reaction and Political Undertones

The controversy has sparked public debate, especially regarding whether the issue is politically motivated. Dr. Danquah, who has strong support in the Western Region and is a known advocate for health sector reforms, may be facing targeted attacks aimed at damaging her credibility.

Some political analysts believe the timing of GTEC's intervention raises eyebrows, especially as her parliamentary campaign gains traction.

What Happens Next?

Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah’s legal team has demanded:

• A retraction of the letter sent to the presidency
  
  

• A public apology from GTEC
  
  

• A transparent review process that includes her full participation
  
  

If these demands are not met, they have hinted at pursuing legal action and filing a defamation suit.

Meanwhile, academic and professional bodies in Ghana are closely monitoring the dispute, as it could set a precedent for how state institutions interact with professionals who hold foreign degrees and are active in public life.

Source:

Myjoyonline.com