The Fixthecountry 3-day demonstration against illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, and the unlawful detention of their comrades has sparked widespread attention.
One of the movement’s prominent leaders delivered a compelling statement that captured the frustration and resolve of the people involved on the Demo grounds before the press.
His speech on the protest grounds emphasized the threat galamsey poses not only to the environment but also to the survival of democracy in Ghana. This detailed his passionate appeal for the restoration of true democratic values and the protection of the nation’s natural resources.
The protest leader began by acknowledging the large turnout despite it being a weekday, which, in his view, was evidence that galamsey is not just a problem affecting a few.
“We are grateful to all true citizens for coming out to support this worthy cause. Now this is evident that the galamsey and other unconstitutional conduct are not affecting just some of us, but it’s actually affecting everyone.”
The Protest leader
He emphasized the urgency of the situation, portraying the protest as more than just a demonstration, but rather a “desperate cry for survival.”
He called for more citizens to join the movement, urging those who couldn’t make it on the first day to show up in the following days. He made it clear that the protest was intended to “shut down the city for our lives.” This underlined the seriousness with which the movement views the destructive effects of illegal mining, which has ravaged lands and contaminated water bodies across Ghana.
Galamsey: A Threat to Democracy
The protest leader made a critical connection between the environmental devastation caused by galamsey and the erosion of democracy in the country.
“This is the beginning of true democracy, not the sham we’ve been practicing as democracy. Because a true democracy should give the will and power to the people to voice out their displeasure, to stand up to unconstitutional conduct.”
The Protest leader
His statement highlighted how Galamsey has not only destroyed the environment but also undermined the principles of good governance and the rule of law.
In his view, the government’s inability to curb the menace reflects a broader failure to uphold democratic values and protect citizens’ rights.
The leader expressed a desire to live in Ghana where citizens could challenge their government without fear of persecution.
“I’ve always been saying that one day, I want to wake up to a Ghana where I’ll be able to defend my country against my government or any form of government, and that is what we are saying now.”
The Protest leader
Symbolic Acts of Resistance: Kneeling During the March
The leader also explained the symbolic significance of the kneeling act performed by protesters during the march.
As they marched for five minutes, they would pause, kneel, and continue. This gesture was meant to demonstrate the severity of the situation, illustrating that the country was figuratively “choking” under the weight of illegal mining and government inaction. He emphasized; “Kneeling signifies that, no, we are at a point where we are choking, and we can’t stand anymore.”
He emphasized that this act was more than just a march or a protest but a symbolic demonstration of the “desperate cry for survival against the deliberate attempt to destroy our land, our water, and our lives.”
His words captured the despair of those who have witnessed firsthand the environmental degradation caused by galamsey and the failure of authorities to respond effectively.
A Critique of Government and Law Enforcement
In addition to condemning illegal mining, the leader also criticized the government’s handling of the judicial process and law enforcement’s treatment of protesters.
He highlighted the unjust treatment of their comrades who had been arrested, describing how they were “kidnapped, detained, denied bail by the judiciary, and even denied food, water, and access to legal representation.” This, in his view, was a gross violation of democratic principles.
He emphasized; ”This is barbaric. This is tyrannical, and this is not a true democracy.” He was particularly critical of the police force, accusing them of consistently failing to uphold their oath to serve with integrity. He asserted; “Since I started having confrontations with the Ghana police, they have never served in integrity.”
The Attorney General’s Remarks: Too Little, Too Late
When asked about the Attorney General’s statement promising not to oppose bail in upcoming court hearings, the protest leader dismissed the gesture as insincere. He accused the Attorney General of merely attempting to “eat up his words” and deflect from the damage already done.
He compared the infringement on the protesters’ rights to acts of murder, insisting that such violations could not be simply brushed aside with a public statement. He reiterated; “Infringement on our basic human right is as bad as murder and assassination.”
He also criticized the broader lack of concern from leadership, asserting that the government has shown little genuine interest in the welfare of its people. He emphasized; “Leadership has never been concerned about the life of the people. They took an oath to serve.”
A Call to Stand Against Environmental Destruction
The leader concluded his remarks with a passionate appeal to all Ghanaians to stand up against environmental destruction and demand better governance.
He lamented the use of toxic chemicals in galamsey operations and the long-term health hazards they pose to ordinary citizens. He reiterated; “Look at Galamsey. The use of mercury, cyanide, arsenic, lead, and other harmful chemicals. These are heavy metals… very dangerous to our system.”
He ended with a forceful statement of his motivation, saying, “Yes, I have an interest, and my interest is to see a better Ghana.”
This three-day protest was a clear call to action for Ghanaians to protect their environment, reclaim their democracy, and hold their leaders accountable for their actions—or lack thereof—against illegal mining.
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