The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has condemned the Ghana Police Service’s recent actions against Democracy Hub protesters, urging the authorities to drop charges against those in custody. Sammy Gymafi, NDC National Communication Officer, emphasized that police efforts should prioritize halting widespread pollution and destruction of Ghana’s water bodies, rather than targeting protesters.
The NDC pointed out that government officials and ruling party functionaries responsible for environmental degradation through illegal mining should face the law. “Those who ought to be arrested, remanded, and dealt with are the irresponsible officials of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government and ruling NPP functionaries,” Gymafi stated, highlighting their role in polluting water bodies and the environment.
The protests, which aimed to raise awareness about the devastating impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s environment, resulted in the arrest of 28 protesters, with 11 others sent to prison. Eyewitnesses reported police brutality, including assaults on minors, elderly individuals, and a pregnant woman.
The NDC has demanded the immediate release of these protesters and discontinuation of prosecution. Gymafi argued that those fighting illegal mining deserve commendation, not punishment. “The increased spate of illegal mining under the NPP poses an existential threat to all Ghanaians,” he noted.
The NDC has called on President Akufo-Addo to act on his promises regarding the illegal mining crisis. Gymafi urged the leader to direct his Attorney-General to drop charges against the protesters, emphasizing that citizens demanding accountability should not be treated as criminals.
The arrests have sparked widespread concern, with reports of innocent bystanders being detained, including a man returning from church. Families and lawyers of the detained protesters have faced difficulties accessing their loved ones, with some being denied necessities like food and water.
The NDC’s statement condemned the actions of the Ghana Police Service and the court, deeming the remand of protesters for misdemeanors reprehensible. The party affirmed that the right to protest is a fundamental human right that should not be violated by state authorities.
The NDC’s stance highlights the need for governments to prioritize environmental sustainability and protect citizens’ rights. The international community is watching, and Ghana’s response to this crisis will have far-reaching implications.
The NDC’s call to action emphasizes the urgent need for the Ghanaian government to address environmental degradation, protect protesters’ rights, and hold accountable those responsible for illegal mining.
Read Below Statement:
