State Attorneys Oppose Bail Application For 20 Anti-Galamsey Protestors On Remand

State Attorneys have once again opposed a bail application for 20 of the anti-galamsey protestors currently on remand, filing fresh affidavits to argue against their release. 

This comes after the High Court Judge criticized the State Attorneys on Monday for disrespecting the court by failing to appear for previous hearings.

In court today, Tuesday, the State Attorneys claimed they were not informed in advance about the bail applications. 

Nevertheless, they reiterated their firm opposition to granting bail for the 20 protestors, despite the court’s earlier decision to release 21 of the 53 protestors on bail, with 20 new applications heard this morning.

Monday's bail was granted on varying terms, complicating the ongoing legal battle, which has significant implications for civil rights and environmental activism in Ghana.

Meanwhile, activist and convener of the Democracy Hub, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, was once again denied bail by the Accra High Court following his recent arrest during the anti-galamsey protest. 

Mr Barker-Vormawor, along with others, was protesting against illegal mining, known as galamsey, which has severe environmental consequences for the country.

According to police reports, Barker-Vormawor was arrested for engaging in illegal activities during the protest, though specific details remain under investigation. 

He was reportedly captured on video removing the keys from a police van during the demonstration.