Presidential staffer and NPP loyalist, Evron Rothschild Hughes, has vehemently criticized the recent actions of the Democracy Hub demonstrators, particularly their characterization of the vehicle in question as a “humanitarian truck.”
Hughes argued that this label does not justify the demonstrators’ actions, which included stealing keys from a police vehicle and obstructing law enforcement officers as they carried out their lawful duties.
He believes that such behavior undermines the rule of law and sets a dangerous precedent for how protests should be conducted in a democratic society.
The NPP stalwart emphasized that while citizens have the right to express their dissent, it should not come at the expense of public order and the safety of law enforcement personnel.
“…thing is, one can find justification for anything if you look hard enough. There is NOTHING like “Humanitarian Truck” in law”.
“The truck was illegally parked in the median. I am no lawyer, but I can find at least 3 “laws” broken by parking at that place”
Evron Rothschild Hughes
Hughes further indicated that it is particularly troubling to witness individuals who have previously benefited from protests now attempting to criminalize them.
He pointed out the irony in this shift, suggesting that those who once relied on the power of demonstration to advocate for their causes are now turning against the very mechanisms that enabled their voices to be heard.
Hughes believes this trend undermines the fundamental democratic principle of free speech and the right to assemble peacefully.
He argued that the ability to protest is a cornerstone of democracy, allowing citizens to express their grievances and push for change.
As such, he indicated that by seeking to criminalize protests, these individuals risk stifling dissent and curtailing the freedoms that many have fought hard to secure.
Hughes called for a more consistent approach to the right to protest, emphasizing that it should be protected rather than vilified, regardless of the political context or the individuals involved.
Hughes Highlights Changes In Protest Conduct
Furthermore, Evron Rothschild Hughes indicated that, compared to earlier days, citizens who protested did not engage in damaging public property.
He stated that instead of inflicting damage, those who protested often faced severe repercussions, including beatings and brutal treatment by the police.
Hughes emphasized that these past experiences highlight a stark contrast to some current protest behaviors, which he believes undermine the legitimacy of citizens’ voices.
He argued that while it is crucial to allow for dissent and protest, it should be done in a manner that respects public property and the rule of law, ensuring that the rights of all citizens are upheld.
“I have protest battle scars from Legon to adulthood. Have you ever been beaten black and blue by Mounted Police with horsewhips before? (And all I/we did was to stand about 150 yards from the State House gates in support of Kwesi Pratt and Adu Boahen being tried at the then Tribunal)”.
Evron Rothschild Hughes
As such, Hughes maintained that there is no justification for the destruction of property, whether private or public or for the commission of unlawful acts during what is meant to be a demonstration.
The NPP stalwart emphasized that protests should serve as a platform for constructive dialogue and expression of grievances, rather than a pretext for violence and vandalism.
Hughes believes that maintaining respect for property and the law is essential to preserving the integrity of peaceful demonstrations and ensuring that the voices of citizens are heard productively.
“In any case, the matter is in the hands of the Police. And the courts. It is my hope that the court finds those who committed unlawful acts, guilty. And imposes hefty fines on them”.
Evron Rothschild Hughes
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