A Cape Coast High Court has issued an injunction against Prof. Johnson Nyarko-Boampong, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), following a legal challenge by John Mevemeo, a resident of Millennium City-Kasoa. This ruling prevents Prof. Nyarko-Boampong from acting in his official capacity as Vice-Chancellor, pending the resolution of the case.
On September 4, 2024, the court granted an interlocutory injunction that restrains Prof. Nyarko-Boampong from performing any duties after his current term expires on July 31, 2024. Mr. Mevemeo contends that the UCC Council’s decision to renew the Vice-Chancellor’s appointment until July 31, 2026, violates Article 199(1) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana and relevant UCC statutes.
Mr. Mevemeo argues that the renewal of Prof. Nyarko-Boampong’s term is illegal, as he was born on September 18, 1965, making him subject to a statutory retirement age of 60. According to UCC statutes, the Vice-Chancellor’s tenure can be renewed for up to three years but cannot extend beyond the retirement age. Therefore, Mr. Mevemeo claims that the extension to 2026 is unconstitutional and should be declared null and void.
The plaintiff also highlighted procedural deficiencies in the UCC Council’s decision-making process, asserting that the council did not comply with the necessary requirements outlined in UCC Statutes 2016, specifically statutes 8.15 and 8.16.
In response to the court’s ruling, lawyers representing the university and Prof. Nyarko-Boampong have indicated plans to file for a stay of execution regarding the injunction. The court has deferred its reasons for granting the injunction until September 5, 2024, which will provide further clarity on the legal basis for its decision.
This legal battle raises significant questions about governance and compliance within the University of Cape Coast. As the case unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor the implications for university leadership and the broader educational landscape in Ghana.
