39 Protesters Denied Bail over #StopGalamseyDemo

A total of 39 protesters arrested during the #StopGalamseyDemo have been denied bail by the Accra Circuit Court, sparking widespread outcry from activists and civil society groups. The demonstrators, who were part of a larger group advocating for an end to illegal mining (galamsey) in Ghana, were taken into police custody on Wednesday, September 11, after clashing with law enforcement during the protest.

The #StopGalamseyDemo was organized by Democracy Hub, youth activists, and concerned citizens, who took to the streets of Accra to demand stronger government action against illegal mining, which has caused widespread environmental damage, including the pollution of rivers, destruction of farmlands, and deforestation.

During the protest, tensions escalated as the group attempted to march to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to present a petition. The police intervened, citing concerns over public order and the legality of the march, leading to the arrest of 39 demonstrators. Protest organizers accused the police of using excessive force to disperse the peaceful protest, with several protesters reportedly injured in the process.

At the hearing on Thursday, the presiding judge denied the protesters’ request for bail, stating that the court needed more time to assess the charges brought against them. The protesters are facing charges of unlawful assembly, obstruction of public peace, and assaulting law enforcement officers.

The decision to deny bail has been met with strong criticism from human rights organizations and activists, who argue that the arrests were unjustified and the charges politically motivated. Many believe that the government is attempting to suppress legitimate dissent against its handling of the illegal mining crisis.

“We are deeply concerned about the denial of bail for these peaceful protesters. This is a clear violation of their constitutional rights to free assembly and expression,” said an activist from the Environmental Justice Network, one of the groups involved in the demonstration. “The government should be addressing the real issue, which is the destruction caused by illegal mining, not arresting those who are calling for action.”

Family members of the arrested protesters also expressed frustration over the court’s decision, accusing authorities of trying to intimidate and silence the growing anti-galamsey movement. Many gathered outside the courthouse, holding placards that read, “Protect Our Lands, Not Corruption” and “Release the Protesters.”

One of the protest leaders, who spoke anonymously for fear of retribution, vowed that the group would not be silenced and that the #StopGalamseyDemo would continue to fight against illegal mining, which has devastated many communities across the country.

“This movement is bigger than the 39 people arrested. It is about the future of our land, our water, and the well-being of all Ghanaians. We will not stop until the government takes real action to stop galamsey,” the leader stated.

The denial of bail for the #StopGalamseyDemo protesters has added to the growing controversy over the government’s response to illegal mining. Despite pledges from President Nana Akufo-Addo to address the issue, illegal mining continues to thrive, with critics accusing the government of failing to enforce laws and allowing politically connected individuals to benefit from the illicit activity.

Environmentalists warn that without decisive action, the long-term damage from galamsey could lead to severe water shortages, loss of biodiversity, and food insecurity. They have called on the government to ramp up enforcement efforts, prosecute offenders, and support sustainable mining practices that protect the environment.

As the #StopGalamseyDemo protesters await their next court hearing, the case has intensified calls for justice, both for the environment and for those who risk their freedom to speak out against illegal mining.

AMN | Anochie’s Report | Accra.