President Nana Akufo-Addo has rejected claims that the recent arrest of 53 protesters against illegal mining, or “galamsey,” is an attempt to suppress dissent in Ghana.
In an interview with France 24, the president emphasized his support for peaceful demonstrations as an integral part of democratic expression, while distancing himself from the judiciary’s handling of those arrested.
“I am not responsible for jailing people in Ghana. The courts in Ghana are independent institutions, and they have been so through the Fourth Republic. People misconduct themselves and are brought before the court-it is for the court to deal with them, it has nothing to do with the executive. Their behaviour is what landed them in trouble with the Police and the court,” President Akufo-Addo explained.
The protesters, who were detained during a demonstration against the environmental degradation caused by galamsey, have raised concerns about the impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s natural resources, particularly its water bodies and forests.
While some legal experts have criticized the state’s detention of the demonstrators as harsh, the president reiterated that lawful conduct is essential.
“How can a president whose political career was aided by leading protests have problems with protests? I don’t have problems with protests, and nothing is done in Ghana to prevent people from airing their views,” he added.
Though the president acknowledged the serious threat posed by galamsey, he urged protesters to engage constructively with authorities to address the issue. He stressed that demonstrations must remain peaceful and legal to ensure effective solutions are found.
