The Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has strongly denounced the arrest of over 50 Democracy Hub protesters, labelling it an unlawful tactic employed by the Ghana Police.
The protesters, demonstrating against illegal mining (galamsey) were accused of blocking roads and obstructing traffic.
CDD-Ghana slammed the Ghana Police Service for using excessive force and brutality, refusing to release the complete list of arrested individuals, and denying access to legal counsel.
The organization condemned the unlawful transfer of detainees from police cells to prison without court approval and prolonged detention beyond 48 hours without being brought before a competent court.
These actions, according to CDD-Ghana, violate the detainees’ fundamental human rights and undermine the rule of law in Ghana’s constitutional democracy, eroding public trust in the legal system and public institutions.
The organisation reminded the government of Ghana’s commitment to the 1966 International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and Article 21(1)(d) of the 1992 Constitution, guaranteeing the right to peaceful assembly.
CDD-Ghana urged the government and relevant authorities to uphold the constitutional rights of all Ghanaians, including the right to peaceful assembly, freedom of expression, and protection from unlawful detention.
The organisation called on the Ghana Police Service to protect citizens’ rights, maintain public order, and adhere to the Constitution.
Read below the statement by CDD-Ghana
