Sulemana Braimah, Executive Director of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), has praised the Ghana Police Service for its professional handling of the recent demonstration organized by the Democracy Hub group. He described the police’s approach as “refreshing and a step in the right direction towards upholding the constitutional right of freedom of expression in Ghana.”
This statement comes amid heightened scrutiny of law enforcement’s methods during public protests, as the police historically faced criticism for their heavy-handed tactics.
Braimah noted that the police’s tolerance towards demonstrators represents a significant shift from past practices, where brute force was often employed to maintain order during such events. He highlighted the positive image that the Dampare-led Police Service has created for the country and its democratic credentials. “It is gratifying to see our Police Service exercise such restraint while enforcing the law in the face of what appeared like a deliberate attempt to provoke them. This show of rare professionalism in policing certainly helps to deepen the growth of our democracy under this IGP, and I will encourage him to continue with his exemplary leadership,” he stated.
In an interview with PeaceFMOnline on Monday, September 23, Mr. Braimah emphasized the challenges faced by police during the protests. He pointed out that actions such as removing keys from police vehicles and fleeing could have led to tragic outcomes. However, under the leadership of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dampare, the police managed to maintain order and avoid any escalation of violence while ensuring that the laws were enforced. “I am not surprised to see a lot of people commending the police for the professional handling of the demonstrations. Dr. Dampare has given us a reason to be hopeful in the future,” he remarked.
The protests began on Saturday, September 21, and unfolded over three days. Demonstrators initially blocked the 37 Intersection in Accra, creating significant disruptions by using vehicles and stones, setting fires, and even engaging in playful activities like football in the middle of the road. These actions resulted in severe inconvenience for the public, leading to traffic jams, delays in medical emergencies, and interruptions in social and commercial activities, including funerals and business operations.
The Ghana Police Service had issued a stern warning to the event’s organizers, characterizing the demonstrators’ actions as “unGhanaian, uncivil, and unlawful.” In their statement, the police highlighted the adverse effects on commuters, with many stuck in traffic for hours, individuals needing urgent medical care facing delays in reaching hospitals, and families struggling to deliver supplies to loved ones in medical facilities. The police assessment concluded that the demonstrators had no intention of staging a peaceful protest, which led to the issuance of alternative protest locations to mitigate disruption.
Despite the police’s proposals, the protesters continued to gather at the 37 Intersection, prompting the police to prepare for potential enforcement actions. The police warned that if protesters persisted in blocking this key thoroughfare, they would use all lawful means to ensure the free movement of traffic and prevent undue inconvenience to the public.
On Sunday, September 22, tensions escalated as violent demonstrators attacked police officers at the 37 Intersection, resulting in the arrest of 42 protesters, including some conveners of the event. Footage from the scene depicted chaotic confrontations, with protesters pushing down police barricades and physically engaging with law enforcement personnel attempting to disperse the gathering.
One of the key figures involved in the protest, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, was seen in several videos dismantling police barricades and removing keys from a police vehicle, which he later discarded. His actions led to attempts by the police to arrest him; however, he managed to flee the scene initially. Following a manhunt, he was later apprehended by law enforcement.
This series of events has sparked discussions about the balance between the right to protest and the need for public order. The Ghana Police Service’s recent actions, particularly under IGP Dampare’s leadership, have been noted as a significant improvement in their approach to managing demonstrations. The service’s ability to enforce the law while maintaining a level of restraint has been widely acknowledged and commended by various stakeholders, including civil society organizations and members of the public.
As Ghana continues to navigate the complexities of democratic governance and civil liberties, the recent handling of the Democracy Hub protests serves as a benchmark for future demonstrations. The praise from Sulemana Braimah and others reflects a growing recognition of the importance of upholding the constitutional right to freedom of expression while ensuring public safety and order. This balance is crucial for fostering a democratic environment where citizens can express their grievances without fear of violent reprisals or excessive force from law enforcement agencies.
Moving forward, it will be essential for the police to maintain this professional standard while engaging with the public and addressing their concerns. The response to the Democracy Hub protests could potentially influence how future demonstrations are managed in Ghana, encouraging a culture of dialogue and cooperation between law enforcement and citizens.
In conclusion, the professional handling of the recent demonstrations by the Ghana Police Service, as commended by Sulemana Braimah, represents a significant development in the country’s democratic landscape. It underscores the importance of protecting the right to peaceful protest while ensuring that law and order are upheld, marking a positive step towards a more tolerant and democratic society.
