In a bold plea to Ghana’s Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo, Convention People’s Party (CPP) Presidential Candidate, Nana Frimpomaa, has called for the immediate intervention in the continued detention of protestors arrested during the “Stop Galamsey Now” demonstrations.
The protest, which sought to raise awareness on the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining activities (galamsey), resulted in the arrest of several citizens.
In her petition, Nana Frimpomaa highlighted the critical environmental impact of galamsey, stressing the protesters’ peaceful intent to safeguard water bodies and forests, which are essential for the health of millions of Ghanaians.
She noted with concern the two-week detention period without bail, during which protestors have faced inadequate access to food, sanitation, and legal counsel.
Nana Frimpomaa emphasized the protesters’ constitutional right to peaceful demonstration, urging the Chief Justice to abridge the time for their detention and to ensure their swift return to court.
She also requested that bail be granted to the detainees as the legal process continues.
The letter emphasizes the urgency of the situation and appeals to the Chief Justice’s compassion to protect the fundamental rights of citizens.
Nana Frimpomaa’s petition was copied to several prominent figures, including the President, Nana Akufo-Addo and his Vice Dr Mahamudu Bawumia; Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin as well as various religious leaders and human rights institutions.
