Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), has issued a passionate appeal to the Akufo-Addo government, judiciary, and the Ghana Police Service for the immediate release of the remanded Democracy Hub protesters. The demonstrators, initially engaged in peaceful protest, were involved in violent clashes with the police between September 21 and 23.
The protests, held at Accra’s 37 Roundabout, escalated when some protesters blocked roads, dismantled police barriers, obstructed traffic, and burned property. As of now, 54 protesters have been detained, with nine in prison custody and the rest in police custody.
Addressing the situation during the 28th GJA Media Awards on Saturday, September 28, Dwumfour commended the police for their professionalism but expressed concern over the excessive actions taken against the protesters. He criticized the decision to remand the protesters for two weeks, calling it “too extreme” and a potential violation of human rights.
“I want to commend the Ghana Police Service for exhibiting a high level of professionalism and restraint during the recent three-day protest against galamsey by some individuals. We note some excesses and provocations that occurred during the demonstration, and the GJA condemns these excesses,” Dwumfour remarked. “However, we also believe that remanding the protesters for two weeks is too extreme and does not send positive signals when it comes to protecting human rights. As a result, we add our voice to calls on the government, police, and the judiciary to take steps to release the protesters immediately.”
The ongoing legal battle has drawn widespread attention. Defence lawyers, during a recent bail hearing, argued for the release of the accused, citing their treatment in custody. The prosecution, however, refuted claims of mistreatment, noting that the protesters were receiving adequate care, including meals from the popular local restaurant Papaye, a statement that sparked outrage from the defence.
Concerns were also raised over the unknown addresses of some of the protesters, which led the judge to deny bail, remanding the protesters until their next court appearance on October 8. The decision prompted an outcry from the remanded protesters, who responded by singing patriotic songs outside the courtroom.
The protest, which began as a peaceful demonstration against illegal mining (galamsey), has now raised larger questions about human rights and the state’s response to civil unrest in Ghana.
