One of the leaders of the Democracy Hub and organizer of a recent three-day #StopGalamsey protest, expressed his thoughts following the Accra High Court’s decision to deny him bail.
The convener emphasized that the challenges he faces from protesting against illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey, are worthwhile for the benefit of the nation.
He stated that he remains unfazed by his arrest and the court’s refusal to grant him bail, insisting that the sacrifice he is making is justified for the greater good of the country.
“Ghana is worth the sacrifice! Stay the course!,” Barker-Vormawor wrote on X on October 8, 2024.
Background:
The bail application of Oliver Barker-Vormawor was denied by the Accra High Court, with Justice Comfort Tasiame presiding. The judge cited the necessity for further investigation and raised concerns about potential public unrest if he were released.
Barker-Vormawor is facing charges of treason, which precludes him from being granted bail for another offense, according to the judge’s remarks.
His legal team contended that his detention infringes on his constitutional rights to free expression and peaceful assembly, emphasizing that the protests were non-violent and aimed at highlighting the detrimental effects of illegal mining.
Kwaku Asante shared the news of the bail denial on social media platform X on Monday, October 7, 2024. He noted, “The High Court has refused to grant Oliver Barker-Vormawor, Convenor of the protest, bail. According to the judge, Oliver is currently standing trial for treason, and what assurance is there that he won’t commit another offense if granted bail?”
Barker-Vormawor was apprehended alongside 53 others, charged with offenses including unlawful assembly, unlawful damage, assaulting a public officer, and engaging in conduct that could breach the peace during the protest against illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, held on Saturday, September 21, and Sunday, September 22, at the 37 Intersection in Accra. He was filmed during the protest taking the keys from a police van that was parked nearby.
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