The streets of Accra, Ghana, were eerily empty on the third and final day of the Democracy Hub protest, a stark contrast to the chaos that unfolded on Sunday.
Over 40 demonstrators were arrested on Sunday, September 22, leading to a dramatic decline in turnout on Monday.
Despite the absence of protesters, a heavy police presence remained, indicating the authorities’ preparedness for any eventuality.
However, two individuals did show up with placards, standing 30 meters away from the police barricade and shouting “Stop galamsey.” Their demonstration was short-lived, as they were promptly arrested and taken to the central police unit.
This protest was part of the “Say No To Galamsey” movement, which has been gaining momentum in Ghana.
The movement aims to raise awareness about the devastating effects of illegal mining, or galamsey, on the country’s environment and water resources.
Background of the Protests
The Democracy Hub protests have been marked by tensions between demonstrators and police.
On Sunday, a scuffle broke out, resulting in dozens of arrests.
The police later in the day on Monday arrested, the protest leader, Oliver Mawuse Barker-Vormawor, for various offenses.
In response to the physical protests being thwarted, the demonstrators have vowed to take their movement to social media.
This shift in strategy may indicate a new wave of online activism in Ghana, where citizens can mobilize and express their concerns without fear of physical reprisal.
Related Incidents
Similar protests have occurred in Ghana, with varying degrees of success.
For instance, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) held a nationwide demonstration against the Electoral Commission (EC) on September 17.
However, the event was marred by gunshots and clashes between protesters and police in Kumasi, the Ashanti Regional capital.
Source:dailyguidenetwork.com