Stalemate between Police and Democracy Hub over planned demonstration locations
The Ghana Police Service and the Democracy Hub have reached a stalemate after failing to agree on an appropriate location for the group’s planned demonstration this weekend.
The Ghana Police Service in a statement said despite a court order prohibiting the protest from taking place at Revolution Square, near Jubilee House, the organizers have declined to accept alternative sites, raising concerns over public safety and security.
In the statement issued earlier today, the Police revealed that they met with Democracy Hub organizers to discuss their protest, which seeks to address concerns ahead of Ghana’s upcoming elections. The court order, issued in the interest of public defense, safety, and the smooth running of essential services, bars the demonstration from taking place near sensitive state installations.
During the meeting, the organizers suggested several alternative locations, including the 37 Roundabout, Airport Roundabout, and the Opeibea intersection.
However, after reviewing these suggestions, the Police determined that holding the demonstration in any of these areas could still jeopardize public order and safety. In response, the Police proposed seven alternative venues, including the Cantonments Post Office-DVLA stretch, the El Wak side park, and the frontage of the Trade Fair.
Unfortunately, no agreement was reached, as the Democracy Hub rejected the Police's proposed locations. The stalemate leaves the future of the protest in question, with the Police urging the organizers to reconsider their stance to avoid further conflict.
The statement signed by the Assistant Commissioner of Police Grace Ansah-Akrofi emphasized the need for the organizers to comply with the law, noting the risks posed by some of their plans. Intelligence gathered by the Police suggests that certain demonstrators may be preparing to defy the court order, wield weapons, and disrupt public order. Alleged plans also include attacks on critical state installations and Members of Parliament, as well as creating road chaos through motorbike convoys.
The Police have called on the Democracy Hub to caution its members against any unlawful acts and adhere to the Public Order Act, 1994 (Act 491). The statement warns that the organizers will be held accountable for any violations or unrest during the protest.
Despite the stalemate, the Ghana Police Service reassured the public that adequate security measures are in place to handle any potential threats arising from the demonstration.
The statement encouraged citizens to support law enforcement in maintaining peace and stability throughout the country.