Amnesty Int'l Ghana demands probe into alleged police brutality against Galamsey protesters

Accra, Ghana - Amnesty International Ghana is urging the government to launch a full-scale independent investigation into allegations of police brutality against protesters arrested during the recent Democracy Hub demonstration against galamsey (illegal mining) ¹. The human rights organization expresses concerns that the ongoing abuse of citizens during protests will further restrict civic space before, during, and after the upcoming general elections.

In an interview wth Citi News, Country Director, Genevieve Partington emphasized the need to review laws regarding protests to safeguard citizens' rights. “We are requesting a list of all detained protesters and where they are stationed so we can be granted access to them, so they receive the necessary care and basic human rights. We are also appealing that all who were unlawfully arrested be compensated according to the law of Ghana.”

“That an independent investigation on this matter be immediately conducted and actions taken to ensure that such injustice and inhumane treatment to citizens of the Republic of Ghana does not happen again.''

“It’s time the government took these issues seriously and ensured law and order as we approach the elections in December”, Genevieve Partington added.

The call for investigation comes as 53 protesters, including activist Felicity Nelson, remain in police custody following their arrest during demonstrations from September 21 to 23. 

The protests, which aimed to oppose galamsey, turned violent at the 37 Intersection in Accra, resulting in confrontations between protesters and police.

Source: Lead News Online