The Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has issued a strong condemnation of the recent arrest of over 50 protesters from the Democracy Hub, describing the actions of the Ghana Police Service as unlawful.
The protesters, who were demonstrating against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, were accused of blocking roads and obstructing traffic during their peaceful assembly.
CDD-Ghana criticized the police’s handling of the situation, particularly their use of excessive force and alleged brutality in dispersing the protesters. The organization also highlighted concerns over the refusal by the police to release the full list of arrested individuals and the denial of access to legal counsel for those detained. According to the organization, these actions constitute a serious violation of the protesters’ basic rights.
One of the key issues raised by CDD-Ghana was the unlawful transfer of some detainees from police custody to prison without court approval, a move that is seen as both illegal and an abuse of power. In addition, the organization expressed concern about the prolonged detention of protesters beyond the legally mandated 48-hour period without being brought before a court of law. This delay, they argue, violates the fundamental rights of the detainees and undermines the rule of law in Ghana’s democratic system.
According to CDD-Ghana, these actions not only infringe on the rights of the protesters but also weaken public trust in the country’s legal system and public institutions. The organization warned that such violations could have long-term consequences for Ghana’s constitutional democracy, as citizens may begin to lose faith in the ability of the state to protect their rights and uphold the law.
In their statement, CDD-Ghana also reminded the government of its obligations under international law, particularly the 1966 International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which Ghana has ratified. The ICCPR guarantees the right to peaceful assembly, among other fundamental freedoms. Additionally, CDD-Ghana pointed to Article 21(1)(d) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, which explicitly protects the right of all citizens to peacefully assemble without interference.
The organization called on the government and relevant authorities to ensure that these constitutional rights are upheld, emphasizing the importance of protecting the right to peaceful assembly, freedom of expression, and protection from unlawful detention. CDD-Ghana stressed that the ability of citizens to freely express their views and participate in peaceful protests is a cornerstone of any functioning democracy, and any attempts to suppress these rights must be swiftly addressed.
Furthermore, CDD-Ghana urged the Ghana Police Service to adhere to its constitutional mandate by not only maintaining public order but also respecting and protecting the rights of citizens. The organization emphasized that law enforcement agencies must strike a balance between ensuring public safety and upholding the rights of individuals, particularly when it comes to protests and demonstrations.
The arrest and subsequent detention of the Democracy Hub protesters have sparked widespread debate and concern among civil society organizations and human rights advocates. Many have expressed fears that the police’s handling of the situation could set a dangerous precedent for the treatment of protesters in the future. The use of force and the apparent disregard for the legal rights of those detained have raised questions about the state’s commitment to democratic principles.
The protests themselves were organized in response to the ongoing issue of illegal mining in Ghana, which has had devastating effects on the environment and local communities. Galamsey, as it is commonly known, has become a major problem in recent years, with many accusing the government of failing to take adequate action to address the issue. The Democracy Hub protesters were seeking to bring attention to the harmful impact of illegal mining and demand more decisive action from the authorities.
Despite the peaceful nature of the protests, the police’s response has been widely criticized as heavy-handed and disproportionate. The decision to arrest and detain more than 50 protesters has been viewed as an attempt to intimidate citizens and discourage future demonstrations. This, according to CDD-Ghana, is a clear violation of the rights enshrined in both national and international law.
As the situation unfolds, CDD-Ghana has called on the government to take immediate action to rectify the situation. This includes ensuring that all detainees are treated in accordance with the law and that those who have been unlawfully detained are released. The organization also called for accountability for any police officers involved in the unlawful detention or mistreatment of protesters.
In conclusion, CDD-Ghana’s condemnation of the arrest of the Democracy Hub protesters serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting the rights of citizens, particularly in a democratic society. The organization’s call for the Ghana Police Service to respect the rule of law and uphold constitutional rights is a crucial step in ensuring that Ghana remains a nation where freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are not only allowed but protected.
