A growing divide has emerged within the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) as some members criticize the leadership’s stance on recent national issues.
Dr. Prince Amoabeng Aggrey, a medical practitioner and GMA member, has expressed concerns over the association’s decision not to join the upcoming nationwide strike organized by Organised Labour.
This follows GMA President Dr. Frank Serebour’s announcement on October 8 that the association would abstain from participating in the strike.
In a letter addressed to Dr. Serebour, Dr. Aggrey voiced his disappointment with the GMA’s leadership, accusing the president of prioritizing political interests over the welfare of health professionals and the public.
“It is disheartening to see that the GMA, under your leadership, is being used to advance political interests rather than addressing the genuine concerns of health professionals and the people we serve. Your known affiliation with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) raises concerns about whether your decision was driven by partisan considerations rather than the true welfare of Ghanaians. The health consequences of galamsey affect everyone—presidents, doctors, and ordinary citizens alike—as the very water we all rely on is being contaminated.”
Highlighting the detrimental effects of galamsey on public health and the environment, Dr. Aggrey criticized the GMA for not voicing its opposition to this crisis.
“As President Akufo-Addo has stated, ‘Galamsey is the greatest threat to our future survival as a people’—a threat that extends beyond the poor and vulnerable to you, your family, and indeed every member of society. It is incomprehensible that, in light of such overwhelming evidence, the GMA would choose not to advocate against this menace. We, as members of this association, have a duty to stand up for public health, regardless of the political landscape.
“Your statement has alienated many of us and raised questions about the independence and integrity of the GMA. I urge you to reconsider your position, retract your statement, and ensure that the GMA reflects the collective voice of its members. We must not allow politics to silence our responsibility to protect public health and advocate for a sustainable environment for future generations.
“I look forward to the GMA taking a stronger stance on this critical issue and involving all relevant stakeholders in future decision-making processes,” the letter stated.
Earlier on October 8, a GMA member submitted a petition for the removal of Dr. Frank Serebour as president, citing unilateral decision-making without consulting the National Executive Council or General Assembly.
The petitioner, Dr. (Med) Nene Limon Abayateye, argued that Dr. Serebour’s actions contravened Article 16 of the GMA constitution and had “brought the association into disrepute in the eyes of the general public, making it appear duplicitous in the eyes of well-meaning Ghanaians, given our previous positions on illegal mining.”
