32 Democracy Hub protesters sue Dampare & Dame

Some 32 persons arrested in connection with the Democracy Hub demonstration have sued the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and Attorney-General and Minister of Justice.

Dr. George Akuffo Dampare and Godfred Yeboah Dame, according to the plaintiffs, have violated their human rights.

With Francis-Xavier Sosu, the legislator for Madina as their representative, they are seeking an order from the High Court to enforce their fundamental rights, including freedom of movement, the right to protest, the right to personal liberty, respect for human dignity, and freedom of expression.

The suit also seeks protection against unlawful and arbitrary arrest, detention, malicious prosecution, the right to legal representation, and the right to bail pending trial.

The 32 persons are amongst the 53 who were arrested for embarking on a peaceful demonstration against the government’s lazy approach towards ending illegal mining also known as ‘galamsey’.

There have been calls for the government to stop illegal mining which have fallen in deaf ears.

Some Members of Parliamennt belonging to the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) have come out clearly to say that the government cannot stop illegal mining because it will affect the party’s fortunes in the upcoming elections in the mining areas.

A recent report by The Fourth Estate revealed how some politically exposed persons were scrambling for licenses to mine in Ghana’s forest reserves including areas that are not to be touched.

This comes after several other reports have cited persons in the governing party including the NPP Chairman of the Ashanti region, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Wontumi, engaging in mining in forest reserves.

During the protest to register their displeasure over the development and ask the government to put an end to the canker, the Ghana Police Service accused them of damaging property at the 37 Military Hospital Roundabout, blocking roads, dismantling barriers and obstructing traffic.

Nine of the protesters who were arrested are currently in prison with the rest in police custody.

The prosecution has denied any mistreatment of the accused, asserting that they were properly cared for, including being provided meals from the popular restaurant Papaye. This claim, however, sparked outrage from defense lawyers.

During a bail hearing, the defense requested the release of the protesters, citing harsh conditions in custody. The prosecution opposed bail, citing concerns over the protesters’ unknown addresses. Consequently, the judge denied bail and remanded the protesters until October 8.

Following the court proceedings, the remanded protesters expressed their dissatisfaction by singing patriotic songs.

Source:onuaonline.com