Akufo-Addo defends detention of Anti-Galamsey Protesters, says 'their behaviour landed them in trouble'

Ghana - President Nana Akufo-Addo has spoken out against accusations that the government is suppressing dissenting voices, following the arrest and detention of 53 anti-galamsey protesters. 

In an interview with France 24 on October 4, Akufo-Addo emphasized his support for peaceful demonstrations as a fundamental aspect of democracy.

“I am not responsible for jailing people in Ghana, The courts in Ghana are independent institutions and they have been so through the Fourth Republic. People misconduct themselves and are brought before the court it is for the court, it is for the court to deal with them, it has nothing to do with the executive, and their behaviour is what landed them in trouble with the Police and the court,'' he stated.

“How can a president whose political career was aided by leading protests have problems with protests, I don’t have problems with protests and nothing is done in Ghana to prevent people from airing their views,'' he added.

The protests, which began on October 3, demand the release of the detained activists and highlight the devastating environmental impact of galamsey, Ghana's illegal mining epidemic. Galamsey has contaminated 60% of Ghana's water resources, destroyed farmlands, and devastated forest reserves.

Critics argue that the government's detention of the protesters is excessive, considering they were demonstrating against a critical issue. Lawyers suggest that the protesters could have been granted bail immediately, as the charges against them are misdemeanors.

The protesters, including key organizer Oliver Mawuse Barker Vormawor, face charges of conspiracy, unlawful assembly, property damage, assault, and theft.

Their next court date is scheduled for October 8.

Source: Florence Kyei/ Lead News Online