Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), has made a heartfelt appeal to the Akufo-Addo government, the judiciary, and the Ghana Police Service, urging them to release the protesters from the Democracy Hub group who are currently in custody.
The protest, which began peacefully, escalated into violence between September 21 and 23, as clashes broke out between demonstrators and the police. Protesters reportedly blocked roads, dismantled police barriers, obstructed traffic, and set fire to property at Accra’s 37 Roundabout. Fifty-four protesters have since been detained, with nine held in prison custody and the rest in police custody.
During the 28th GJA Media Awards in Accra on September 28, Dwumfour commended the police for their professionalism during the demonstrations but also condemned the excessive actions that took place.
He voiced strong opposition to the two-week remand of the protesters, calling it “too extreme” and warning that it sends a negative message about Ghana’s commitment to protecting human rights.
Dwumfour stressed the need for a balanced approach that upholds the law while respecting citizens’ rights. He urged the authorities to reconsider the decision and release the protesters immediately.
“I want to commend the Ghana Police Service for their high level of professionalism and restraint during the recent three-day protest against galamsey. We acknowledge some excesses and provocations that occurred, and the GJA condemns these actions. However, we believe remanding the protesters for two weeks is too extreme and does not reflect positively on human rights protection. Therefore, we join others in calling for the immediate release of the protesters,” he stated.
Background
The protest, intended to be peaceful, turned violent when some demonstrators clashed with the police from Saturday, September 21, to Monday, September 23. The Ghana Police Service accused the protesters of blocking roads, dismantling police barriers, and burning property during the demonstration at Accra’s 37 Roundabout.
Currently, 54 protesters remain in custody, with 9 held in prison and the rest in police custody. Defense lawyers have sought bail for the protesters, challenging the prosecution’s claims regarding their treatment while in custody. Prosecutors, however, insisted the accused were being treated well, with some receiving meals from a popular local restaurant, Papaye. This sparked outrage from the defense.
The judge ultimately denied bail applications, citing concerns about some protesters’ unknown addresses, and remanded them into custody until October 8.