#OccupyJulorbiHouse protesters appear in court, plead not guilty

Accra, Ghana - Over a dozen protesters arrested during the #OccupyJulorbiHouse demonstration have been arraigned in an Accra court today, following a three-day protest at the 37 Roundabout.

The protesters, who were transported to court under heavy security, were voicing concerns over galamsey (illegal small-scale mining) and economic mismanagement.

The arrests occurred during scuffles between protesters and police, with notable social media influencer and lawyer, Ama Governor, among those taken into custody. As she was escorted to the courtroom, Governor urged onlookers to "emancipate yourselves from mental slavery."

Charges and Plea

Lawyers for the protesters claim they were not informed of the exact reasons for the arrests. However, in court, the protesters were charged with conspiracy to commit crime, specifically unlawful assembly. Twelve protesters have pleaded not guilty, with ten remanded into police custody until October 8, 2024.

Concerns Over Protester Whereabouts

Lawyers representing the protesters are struggling to locate all 46 arrested individuals, sparking concerns about extended detention. Prince Ganaku, a member of the Protest Defense, expressed frustration over the lack of information from police regarding the detainees' whereabouts.

However, the police failed to provide any information.

The protests, initially focused on economic crisis and mismanagement, shifted focus to galamsey due to its devastating environmental impact.

Despite arrests, protesters vow to continue demonstrations, arguing that the crackdown strengthens their resolve.

Source :Lead News Online