Oliver Barker-Vormawor, the Convener of the Democracy Hub, has pleaded not guilty to all charges brought against him following his arrest during a three-day protest over the government’s handling of illegal mining, also known as “galamsey.” The protest, which took place at the 37 Roundabout in Accra, aimed to voice concerns over galamsey and economic mismanagement.
Barker-Vormawor, along with 45 other protesters, was accused of disturbing public peace. However, he was absent in court on Wednesday, September 25, due to ill health. Fortunately, he was able to enter a not-guilty plea on Thursday, September 26, when he was brought to court.
The charges against Barker-Vormawor are multiple and severe. They include conspiracy to commit unlawful assembly, unlawful damage, offensive conduct conducive to the breach of peace, assault on a public officer, defacement of public property, and theft.
Meanwhile, the other protesters have not been as fortunate. Thirty-nine of them have been remanded into custody by the Accra Circuit Court, with their case adjourned to October 8, 2024. This means they will spend 14 days in police and prison custody, pending the court’s decision on bail.
The legal team representing the protesters has repeatedly accused the police of mistreating those in custody. They claim that the protesters have been denied access to legal services, further complicating their situation.
The protest was part of a larger movement to bring attention to the issues of galamsey and economic mismanagement in Ghana. Notable figures, including lawyer and social media influencer Ama Governor, were among those arrested.
Ama Governor was heard shouting, “Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery,” as she was escorted to court. This powerful statement highlights the passion and conviction of the protesters.
The Democracy Hub’s protest was a bold statement against the government’s handling of these critical issues. The consequences of their actions will now be decided in court.
The fate of Barker-Vormawor and the other protesters hangs in the balance, as Ghana watches with bated breath.
