Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), has made a heartfelt appeal to the Akufo-Addo government, the judiciary, and the Ghana Police Service for the immediate release of the remanded protesters from the Democracy Hub group.
While Mr. Dwumfour commended the police for their professionalism during the demonstration, he condemned the excessive measures that occurred. He expressed strong disagreement with the decision to remand the protesters for two weeks, describing it as “too extreme” and highlighting its adverse effects on human rights protections.
“This move sends the wrong message regarding Ghana’s commitment to safeguarding human rights,” he said, advocating for a more balanced approach that upholds the law while respecting citizens’ rights.
Mr. Dwumfour made these statements during the 28th GJA Media Awards held 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.”
