The Ghana Police Service issued a public appeal to the Democracy Hub to reconsider their position and choose one of the proposed locations.
The Police further called on members of the public, especially supporters of the Democracy Hub, to urge the organizers to comply with the court’s order and accept a location that guarantees public safety and peace.
“We are once again by this medium appealing to the organizers to reconsider and choose one of the locations proposed to them.
“We would also like to call on members of the public to engage the organizers and impress upon them to reconsider their position on the matter.”
Ghana Police Service
In a crucial meeting held earlier today, the Ghana Police Service sat down with the Democracy Hub, the organizers of an upcoming demonstration, to discuss security concerns and the legality of their proposed protest.
The Police highlighted the court order that prohibits the demonstrators from converging at Revolution Square, located in front of the Jubilee House, citing issues related to public defence, public order, safety, health, and the smooth running of essential services.
According to the Police statement, the Democracy Hub acknowledged having received the court order. The order was issued to maintain national peace and security, ensuring that the protest does not interfere with critical operations near the seat of government.
The Democracy Hub subsequently suggested several high-traffic locations, including the 37 Roundabout, Airport Roundabout, Opeibea Intersection, Stanbic Heights, Christ the King, and the Arko Adjei Interchange.
However, the Police raised concerns about these venues, stating that any demonstrations at these locations could pose threats to public safety, defence, and essential services.
However, the Police noted that these locations would ensure public order, minimize disruption to essential services, and allow the protestors to voice their concerns without endangering the general populace.
“Police suggested the following seven locations to them for consideration: the Cantonments Post Office-DVLA stretch, the VAG Association junction-MTN Head office on the Liberation Road, El Wak side park, Obra Spot, Kawkudi Park, Efua Sutherland Park, the frontage of the Trade Fair.”
Ghana Police Service
Unfortunately, the Democracy Hub organizers refused the proposed alternatives, and the parties were unable to come to a final agreement.
Intelligence Report Raises Security Concerns
In a critical development, the Police disclosed that intelligence gathered ahead of the demonstration suggests that some individuals among the demonstrators might be planning unlawful activities that could threaten national security.
“Defying the order of the court pertaining to the demonstration and also defying all directions of the Police which are in line with the Public Order Act, 1994 (Act 491).
“Wielding of weapons (firearms) and wearing bulletproof vests and helmets Attacking MPs and other state officials attacking Police officers in the discharge of their duties.”
Ghana Police Service
The Police stressed that such activities could severely undermine the country’s peace and security, warning that organizers of the protest would be held accountable for any lawlessness that ensues.
“We would like to call on the organizers of the protest to caution their members against these unlawful acts, desist from any attempts to disturb the peace, and abide by the Public Order Act, 1994 (Act 491),” the statement read.
The Democracy Hub’s planned protest has attracted significant public interest, with many calling for a peaceful expression of grievances. However, the Ghana Police Service has underscored that protests must align with the country’s laws, ensuring the safety and security of both demonstrators and the general public.
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