GJA President Urges Immediate Release of Democracy Hub Protesters

Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), has passionately appealed to the Akufo-Addo government, the judiciary and the Ghana Police Service to release the remanded protesters of the Democracy Hub group.

The protest, initially peaceful, turned violent between September 21-23 when clashes broke out between demonstrators and police.

The protesters blocked roads, dismantled police barriers, obstructed traffic, and burned properties at Accra’s 37 Roundabout.

Currently, 54 protesters are being held, with 9 in prison custody and the remaining in police custody.
President of the Ghana Journalists Association has commended the police for their professionalism during the recent demonstration, while also condemning the excessive actions that occurred.

He expressed strong disagreement with the decision to remand protesters for two weeks, labelling it as “too extreme” and emphasising its negative implications for human rights protection.

Specifically, Dwumfour highlighted that this move sends the wrong message regarding Ghana’s commitment to safeguarding human rights.
He called for a more balanced approach, one that upholds the law while respecting citizens’ rights.
Dwumfour made these remarks during the 28th GJA Media Awards in Accra, on Saturday, September 28.

“I want to commend the Ghana Police Service for exhibiting a high level of professionalism and restraint during the recent three-day protest against Galamsey by some individuals. We note some excesses and provocations that occurred during the demonstration, and the GJA condemns these excesses.

“However, we also believe that remanding the protesters for two weeks is too extreme and does not send positive signals when it comes to protecting human rights. As a result, we add our voice to calls on the government, police, and the judiciary to take steps to release the protesters immediately.”