On Sunday, September 22, 2024, news broke out over the arrest of a 63-year-old woman and a 10-year-old girl. They were part of over thirty people protesting peacefully against illegal mining in Ghana.
A total of 39 protestors were picked up by the Ghana Police Service and were charged with unlawful assembly by the Ghanaian court.
These protestors – which included a four-month-old pregnant woman who was just a bystander – have remained in police custody – with some being sent to prison for 14 days.
What influenced the protest?
For the past four years, Ghana has seen a sharp decline in economic growth, with many suffering untold hardship.
Many businesses have collapsed as the cost of operations has exceeded profit, the youth unemployment rate has skyrocketed, electricity and water tariffs have significantly increased, the cedi has become extremely weak against the dollar, and now – illegal mining or galamsey is fast destroying our natural water bodies.
The after-effects of Galamsey are a serious matter of national concern. In addition to destroying our water bodies, they pose a significant health risk to citizens.
Various researches show that galamsey operations release hazardous substances such as cyanide and mercury, which leads to neurological disorders, respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and congenital disabilities.
In addition, in August 2024, the management of Ghana Water Limited in the Central Region disclosed in a press statement that there have been water supply challenges, which are a result of galamsey activities in the region.
Due to this, some Ghanaians hit the streets to express disappointment and dissatisfaction at President Nana Akufo-Addo’s leadership for not dealing with galamsey even though he assured them he would put his presidency on the line to fight it.
Read also: Kano Digital Innovation Park burned and looted by protesters
Outrage sparks on X
Thousands of Ghanaian youth have taken to social media platforms X, TikTok, and Instagram to demand the immediate release of the 39 peaceful protestors who were marching on the streets for a good cause and the betterment of the nation.
They are also calling on the international media and institutions to use their influence and power to help fight galamsey and make Ghana a safe country for all, including foreigners.
There are also conversations about the rule of law being absent in this case, and more surprisingly, under a president who is a human rights lawyer.
Follow the happening using #FreeTheCitizens #FreeTheYouth #StopGalamseyNow
