The Minority Caucus in Parliament has officially requested a meeting with the Ghana Police Service to discuss preparations and arrangements for the upcoming second #OccupyBoG demonstration, scheduled to take place soon.
On Monday, August 12, Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson submitted a petition to the Ghana Police Service, stressing the need for a peaceful and orderly environment during the upcoming protest.
The upcoming protest, slated for the coming weeks, seeks to press for the immediate resignation of the Governor of the Bank of Ghana and his deputy governors, amid growing calls for leadership change at the central bank.
The Minority emphasized its commitment to a peaceful protest, stating that it is proactively working to guarantee a safe and incident-free demonstration, where participants can exercise their rights without any altercations or confrontations with law enforcement agencies.
“The Minority in Parliament received an initial response from the Ghana Police Service caned 17th July, 2024 approving our earlier communicated date and route for our planned demonstration against the Governor and deputies of the Bank of Ghana”.
“The demonstration which was originally scheduled for the 30th of July, 2024, coincided with the planning of activities and events in the lead-up to the launch of the NDC’s national campaign in Tamale”.
Minority Caucus in Parliament
Consequently, the Minority indicated that it formally requested the Ghana Police Service to reschedule the demonstration from its original date to Tuesday, 18th August 2024.
This request, according to the Minority, seeks to accommodate the protest within a specific timeframe, from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, to ensure a safe and orderly expression of grievances.
The Minority further emphasized that the previously approved route for the protest will not be altered, and will remain the same as initially agreed upon.
Minority Awaits Police Response On Demo Reschedule
Moreover, the Minority expressed concern that, with only days remaining before its planned demonstration, it has yet to receive a formal response from the Ghana Police Service regarding its request to reschedule the event.
“In view of the foregoing, the Minority kindly requests a meeting with the Police at a venue and time of your choice, to consider the modalities for our demonstration against the Governor of the Bank of Ghana and his deputies. Please accept the consideration of our highest regards”.
Minority Caucus in Parliament
The Minority further emphasized that the success of the previous #OccupyBoG demonstration, which was held without incident, serves as a model for the upcoming event, which they pledge to conduct with the same commitment to peace and civility.
Accordingly, the Minority requested the police’s assistance and cooperation in providing a safe and protective atmosphere for everyone involved, to facilitate a smooth and incident-free protest.
Dr. Forson also pointed out that the planned protest is a reaction to the perceived “gross mismanagement” of the nation’s economy, which he believes has occurred under the Bank of Ghana’s stewardship.
Dr. Forson reaffirmed the group’s calls for the central bank’s leadership to be held accountable, for transparent decision-making processes, and for the immediate stepping down of the current leadership.
The Minority Leader argued that the prolonged tenure of the current officials at the helm of the central bank erodes public trust and confidence in the financial system, exacerbating an already precarious situation.
By initiating early dialogue with law enforcement, the Minority hopes to reach a consensus on a suitable protest date, thereby preventing potential disruptions to public order and guaranteeing a safe and successful event.
The Minority, thus, encouraged all citizens, especially the youth, to actively participate in the upcoming demonstration once the dates are confirmed and announced, and to join them in advocating for accountability and positive change.
The Minority emphasized that it is the collective duty of all Ghanaians to safeguard the nation’s financial stability and security, and that everyone has a vital role to play in protecting the country’s economic well-being.
