In a stunning turn of events, an Accra High Court has denied bail to Oliver Barker-Vormawor, a well-known activist and coordinator of the Democracy Hub, once more.
This choice was made in the wake of his detention for allegedly taking the keys from a parked police van at a recent anti-galamsey demonstration.
Barker-Vormawor has previously garnered media attention for his advocacy.
He has previously taken a strong stand on a number of social and political topics and been vocal about them.
He even accused National Security Minister of bribery.
But occasionally, his techniques have been questioned, sparking debate.
Barker-Vormawor was taken into custody during the anti-galamsey demonstration on charges of engaging in unlawful activity.
His request for release was denied by the court, which was presided over by Justice Comfort Tasiame. The reason given was the necessity for additional investigation and worries about public disturbance.
Notably, Barker-Vormawor is already facing treason accusations, which probably had an impact on the court’s ruling.
Barker-Vormawor’s defense team claimed that his arrest went against his constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and free speech.
They made it clear that the demonstrations were peaceful and intended to increase public awareness of the suffering that comes from illicit mining.
Up to twelve other demonstrators have been granted bail with different conditions, while Barker-Vormawor is still being held in detention.
Felicity Nelson, another protestor, was given bail in the amount of GHC 20,000 with two sureties.
The case and its ramifications for environmental and civil rights advocacy in Ghana are more complicated as a result of this treatment difference.
Source: newsthemegh.com