The headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS), Zakaria Abdulai, says he will devote his attention and resources to clearing his name following allegations of sexual abuse involving female students at the school.
Mr Abdulai said this as he resigned as Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Juaben Constituency and withdrew his candidature for the constituency chairmanship.
In an October 20 letter to the NDC General Secretary, he said his resignation and withdrawal from the forthcoming constituency elections took immediate effect.
“At this time, I intend to devote my attention and resources to pursuing all lawful avenues to clear my name and vindicate my position. I remain hopeful that, once these matters are resolved, I will be able to return to active political engagement and continue contributing to the ideals and aspirations of the NDC,” he stated.
The decision comes amid public concern over allegations that Mr Abdulai sexually abused more than 14 female students at the school. The allegations have triggered calls for accountability and a thorough investigation.
Mr Abdulai maintained his innocence and expressed gratitude to friends, relatives and supporters who have continued to believe in him.
“I wish to express my profound gratitude to my friends, relatives, and all well-wishers who have stood by me and maintained their faith in my innocence in the face of the allegations levelled against me and my office,” he said.
He also thanked the NDC for giving him the opportunity to serve the party and contribute to its growth and development.
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Mr Abdulai did not provide details of the legal steps he intends to pursue or indicate when he expects the matter to be resolved.
His letter was copied to the NDC National Chairman and the party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman.
The allegations have also prompted the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) to call for the removal of the headmaster and Ghana Education Service (GES) officials in Obuasi over their alleged handling of complaints concerning the case.
NAGRAT President Jacob Anaba has claimed that concerns about the alleged misconduct were raised before the matter became public and questioned whether the relevant education authorities responded appropriately.
The allegations remain subject to investigation.