Deputy Attorney General Alfred Tuah Yeboah has assured that justice is being served in the case of the Democracy Hub protesters. According to Tuah Yeboah, the protesters were given a court hearing, which is a crucial aspect of due process. He emphasized that if the protesters had been remanded without a hearing, it would have been a problematic situation.
Tuah Yeboah also highlighted the importance of considering various circumstances when granting bail. He explained that the court decides whether to grant bail, regardless of the offenses faced. This is consistent with similar cases in the past, which have not sparked controversy.
The protesters, totaling 53, were remanded for their involvement in a peaceful protest that turned violent between September 21-23. The Ghana Police Service accused them of blocking roads, dismantling barriers, obstructing traffic, and burning properties at Accra’s 37 Roundabout.
The prosecution has denied mistreating the accused, insisting they receive proper care. However, during the bail hearing, defense lawyers sought release, citing harsh conditions. Prosecutors countered that the accused received adequate food, including meals from the popular local restaurant Papaye.
The judge ultimately denied bail applications, remanding protesters until October 8. This decision aligns with the legal framework where bail can be refused if certain conditions are not met.
Following court proceedings, remanded protesters expressed dissatisfaction by singing patriotic songs. This comes after Oliver Barker-Vormawor and 12 Democracy Hub members were remanded in police custody for two weeks, awaiting their October 8 court appearance.
The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has criticized the handling of protesters, with former President John Mahama describing the remanding of protesters as “high-handedness”.
The situation has sparked debate about balancing law and order with protecting citizens’ rights and freedoms.
