The Rastafari Council of Ghana condemns the action of the Sisala East District Director of Education for putting an embargo on the salary of Mohammed Senje for wearing dreadlocks. The members of the Rastafari communities were traumatized when the news came that a 28year old teacher of Jijen Basic School, Mohammed Senje, has been denied of his six months� salary because he has refused to shave his dreadlocks.
Executives of the Council followed up the story and had a meeting with Mohammed, which we discussed extensively with him about the matter. We were convinced that the District Director of Education, Mr. Francis Avonsige, made false accusation about our colleague that he dresses shabbily, unkempt and absents himself from school, when Mr. Avonsige was interviewed by Joy FM.
Contrary, when we met Mohammed, he was decently dressed and his attendance at school was also normal because he has attended class until end of October when he decided to seek redress about the situation. After studying the facts, we of the Rastafari Council which seeks to defend the rights of our members, want to deplore the action of Mr. Avonsige�s.
We have taken the stance to defend the right and the interest of our colleague to ensure that justice is done to Mohammed and prevent the abuse of other members. We are aware that Mr. Avousige�s action is unlawful.
However, if he will compromise to solve this problem amicably without further abuse of our colleague�s fundamental freedom, then the council will co-operate in that direction.
The Public Relations Officer of the Rastafari Council, Ras Kwaku Antwi Boasialco, expresses disappointment about the action of the District Director who is supposed to know the fundamental freedom of the people, the right and protection of public officer. It is enshrined in the constitution of Ghana: Article 21 section � and (e) and Article 191 respectively. He has overlooked all these provisions and taken this action to suppress Mr. Senje.
We appreciate the swift intervention of the media and the National Secretary of Ghana National Association of Teachers, Mr. Kwame Boni for protesting against this injustice.
On behalf of our colleague, we appeal to the Ministry of Education and other stakeholders in this matter to treat it with all the human feelings it deserves without delay.
The President of the Rastafari Council, Ras Bosco Ahuma Ocansey, appeals to members of their communities to be very circumspective and lead a life that will enhance their chances and also help them to stand the test of the time.
The President also urges the public to investigate the background of the people before identifying them as Rastafari followers because Rastafari culture is not only locks but being peaceful, lovely and respectfully to oneself and the society. He reiterated that the Council will not be biased in their dispensations but will investigate all matters concerning their member will before taking position.
Ras Kwaku Antwi Boasiho
(P.R.O), Rastafari Council of Ghana--0243730182
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