An Accra High Court presided over by Justice Comfort Tasiame, has granted bail to Ama Governor and eight other individuals involved in recent anti-galamsey protests, setting the bail at GH¢70,000 and requiring two sureties for each defendant.
The remaining individuals are Emmanuel Gyan, Emmanuel Kwabena Addo, Ziblim Yakubu, Oheneba Prempeh, Philip Owusu Kwabena, Akisibik Desmond, Von Coffie, and Sadik Yakubu.
This ruling follows a hearing that assessed the legal and societal implications of the protestors’ actions against illegal mining in Ghana.
The bail conditions aim to ensure that the accused remain available for future court proceedings while allowing them temporary relief from custody.
The individuals were arrested during demonstrations intended to raise awareness about the harmful effects of illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, on the environment and local communities.
Activists have increasingly voiced their concerns regarding the destruction of farmlands, water bodies, and forests due to unregulated mining practices.
The timing of the bail grants is particularly significant as public sentiment grows in support of initiatives addressing the galamsey crisis and protecting Ghana’s natural resources.
During the court proceedings, the defense team emphasized that the protests were peaceful and focused on advocating for environmental protection rather than inciting violence.
They highlighted the importance of freedom of expression and the right to peacefully assemble in pursuit of social justice.
The judge recognised the significance of the protesters’ cause while also stressing the need to maintain law and order during public demonstrations.
The case of the Democracy Hub Protesters was prosecuted by the office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice after police reportedly detained some individuals beyond the permissible forty-eight hours before bringing them to court.
Legal experts criticised the state’s detention of the protesters as overly harsh, given that they were protesting against the pressing issue of illegal mining, which poses a serious threat to water bodies and forest reserves.