Ace investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni has criticised the country’s judiciary drawing a stark comparison between the recent protests in Ghana and those in Kenya, pointing to the contrast in the actions of both countries’ judiciaries and the subsequent outcomes.
Mr Awuni’s comments underscored the divergent reactions from state institutions, especially the judiciary, in how they handled civil unrest and citizens’ rights.
Manasseh Azure Awuni, known for his bold stance on governance and corruption-related issues, highlighted how Kenya’s protests were far more intense than Ghana’s, and yet, they resulted in significant political consequences.
He pointed out that while the protest in Ghana was relatively peaceful and marked by music and a small gathering, Kenya saw a charged and violent uprising.
“In Kenya, it was a charged crowd, from the streets to important government buildings. The protestors set parliament on fire. Protesters were killed, and some were arrested.
“They forced the president to drop the controversial bill. The president dissolved the entire cabinet. The head of police resigned. That protest lasted over a month. It’s not the same as the Ghana one, which would not have been noticed but for the arrests and the aftermath of it”.
Manasseh Azure Awuni, Ace and award-winning Investigative Journalist
One of the key points Manasseh Azure Awuni raised was the difference in how the judiciaries of the two nations responded to the protests.
In what he described as “a state of emergency” in Kenya, the police banned protests in Nairobi’s city centre after criminal elements allegedly infiltrated the demonstrations and caused extensive damage, including setting the parliament on fire.
However, Kenya’s judiciary, which Manasseh praised for its independence, ruled against the police ban and allowed the protests to continue, demonstrating its commitment to upholding citizens’ rights to protest.
In contrast, Manasseh Azure Awuni questioned the independence of Ghana’s judiciary, particularly its handling of the protestors who were arrested in Accra.
He criticized the decision to remand some protestors for two weeks, despite allegations of their rights being violated during the arrests.
“That judiciary, I believe, would not keep Ghana’s protestors in remand for two weeks after some of them had their rights violated after their arrests,” he remarked, asserting that Ghana’s judiciary failed to protect the basic rights of citizens compared to Kenya’s.
The renowned award-winning investigative journalist further expressed disappointment that Ghana’s protestors faced prolonged detention.
“In a country where even murder is bailable, why should protesters be remanded for this long, after they spent time in police cells before going to court? What does that seek to achieve?”
Manasseh Azure Awuni, Ace and award-winning Investigative Journalist
He was unambiguous in laying blame on the country’s leadership but called for accountability across institutions.
“In as much as the president must carry the ultimate blame for the mess of the country, we should not fail to call out institutions, such as the judiciary, that are supposed to be independent and act in the interest of the people.”
Manasseh Azure Awuni, Ace and award-winning Investigative Journalist
The award-winning journalist concluded by condemning the excessive use of force against protestors in Ghana while affirming that those who engage in unlawful acts should be held accountable through legal means, without infringing on their fundamental rights.
“I don’t support the excesses, but arresting the protesters and prosecuting them according to the laws should be enough“. Manasseh’s final remark carried a sobering message to those celebrating the repression of protestors.
“The effect of bad governance is like rain. It does not fall under only one roof”, highlighting that the consequences of poor governance impact everyone, regardless of political affiliation or beliefs.
He expressed his support for the #FreeTheCitizens campaign, which has gained traction on social media, emphasizing the call for the release of protestors and urging for more accountability in governance.
His critique adds to growing public discontent over how Ghanaian authorities are handling civil protests, raising broader questions about institutional independence and the protection of fundamental rights in the country.
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