The Democracy Hub protesters who took to the streets last Saturday, 21st September 2024 to demand for accountability from government officials have been remanded into custody following a demonstration.
Following clashes during the Democracy Hub’s demonstration, particularly at the 37 Intersection in Accra, a total of 39 protesters were detained. Out of these, various groups were remanded into custody with different charges including conspiracy to commit a crime, unlawful assembly, causing unlawful damage, and offensive conduct conducive to breach of peace.
Court Decisions
– Ten protesters were initially remanded into police custody with their case adjourned to October 8, 2024.
– Another group of nine protesters also faced remand, with their case set for October 11, 2024.
– Additionally, 11 protesters were remanded into prison custody, also with their next court appearance scheduled for October 8.
There has been considerable attention and reaction on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), with posts highlighting the heavy police presence, the remand of protesters, and calls for their release, indicating a mix of public outrage and support for the demonstrators.
The protesters have pleaded not guilty to the charges against them. There’s also mention of a legal challenge by the Democracy Hub and others against the Inspector General of Police (IGP) for alleged assault, which was struck out by the court but has been requested for re-admission for prosecution to continue.
This situation reflects ongoing tensions between demonstrators, who are voicing concerns over various socio-economic issues in Ghana, and the authorities, who are responsible for maintaining public order. The legal proceedings and public discourse continue to unfold, with the next significant court dates in early October 2024.
