The Democracy Hub, organizers of the recent three-day #StopGalamseyNow and #ReoccupyJulorbiHouse protests has expressed deep disappointment over what they describe as the Attorney General’s “politically motivated and persistent efforts” to deny bail to Oliver Barker-Vormawor, a key convenor and prominent voice in the #FixTheCountry movement.
The group criticized the Attorney General’s request for the court to keep Mr. Barker-Vormawor in custody — a request that has been granted once again by the courts.
In a press statement on Wednesday, October 9, the Democracy Hub described these actions as part of a concerning trend of government oppression aimed at silencing dissenting voices like Mr. Barker-Vormawor’s, which challenge the current administration.
“The government’s relentless targeting of Oliver is a calculated attempt to stifle dissent and intimidate those who dare to criticize the misrule and injustices of the government,” the statement said.
The group further argued that, with less than three months remaining in office and the government’s three-year prosecution of Mr. Barker-Vormawor on “trumped-up” treason charges falling apart, the Akufo-Addo administration appears determined to use any means necessary to detain and punish him before their term ends.
Their comments follow the denial of bail to Mr. Barker-Vormawor for the third time since his arrest during the anti-galamsey demonstration two weeks ago. The court’s ruling on Tuesday came after opposition from the Attorney General’s Department. This latest refusal mirrors similar decisions by both an Accra High Court and a Circuit Court.
The group expressed grave concern over the state’s actions against Mr. Barker-Vormawor, seeing them as a clear intent to punish him for his activism. They emphasized that his arrest and ongoing detention signal a direct attack on the principles of justice, democracy, and free speech in Ghana.
They also condemned what they described as the denial of timely medical care to Mr. Barker-Vormawor, warning that such “callous treatment” poses a serious threat to his health and violates his basic human rights.
In response, the Democracy Hub called for justice for Mr. Barker-Vormawor, urging the judiciary to act impartially.
“The right to bail is constitutionally guaranteed, and denying it under these circumstances is a miscarriage of justice,” the group said. “The continued persecution of Oliver Barker-Vormawor is a gross violation of his fundamental rights and an insult to Ghana’s democratic ideals. We call on the government to end these authoritarian tactics aimed at silencing opposition.”
The group reaffirmed its determination to stand by Mr. Barker-Vormawor and others facing persecution for speaking out, stating, “We will not be intimidated. We will continue to demand justice for Oliver and all those who fight for truth and justice.”
Read the full statement below:
Source: Adomonline
READ ALSO: