70,000 Cedis Bail For Opposing Galamsey?

Elorm Ababio, commonly known as Ama Governor, and eight other protesters who were remanded for their participation in a demonstration against illegal mining, referred to as galamsey, have reportedly been granted bail by the High Court in Accra.  

The group, initially remanded by an Accra Circuit Court, has been set a bail amount of GHC 70,000 each. As part of the bail conditions, they are required to report to the police weekly and submit their Ghana cards at the court registry.  

This decision by the High Court follows an appeal against a previous circuit court ruling that denied bail to the nine individuals, which led to public outcry and demonstrations both locally and internationally.  

These nine individuals were among a larger group of 54 protesters arrested during a demonstration organized by the Democracy Hub, aimed at raising awareness about illegal mining and the alleged economic mismanagement by the government. The protests took place on September 22 and 23, 2024, at the 37 Intersection in Accra, resulting in a significant police presence and multiple arrests. After their first court appearance on September 24, bail requests were denied, leading to the remand of 39 individuals in police and prison custody.  

Ama Governor and the others are scheduled to return to court for their next appearance on October 8 and 11, 2024. Two protesters were hospitalized due to injuries sustained during the protest but were included in the group of 39 remanded after receiving medical treatment.  

The protesters face charges including conspiracy, unlawful assembly, causing unlawful damage, offensive conduct conducive to the breach of peace, and assault on a public officer. Despite these serious allegations, they remain resolute in opposing illegal mining and the government’s management of economic issues, which have sparked public frustration and unrest.  

The protests began as a peaceful rally but escalated into a confrontation with police. The protesters were transported to court in a secured bus and were handcuffed during the proceedings. The Ghana Police Service has indicated that remaining protesters will face legal action, with the Office of the Attorney-General handling the case.  

This situation has attracted significant public attention, as galamsey has long been a source of environmental degradation in Ghana, damaging water bodies and farmlands. With growing public discontent, this issue continues to be a focal point in the nation’s challenges related to both the environment and the economy. The next court dates for 30 of the protesters are set for October 8, while nine others will appear before the court on October 11, 2024.

Credit:Pulse.