Renowned activist and convener of Democracy Hub, Osagyefo Mawuse Oliver Barker-Vormawor has been rushed to the Police Hospital in Accra for urgent medical attention following serious concerns over his deteriorating health.
Oliiver Barker-Vormawor, who remains in police custody, was one of 53 activists detained during the #StopGalamsey and #OccupyJulorbiHouse protests on September 21, 2024.
According to a press release from Democracy Hub, Barker-Vormawor’s health has worsened during his detention, and he is currently undergoing tests to assess the severity of his condition and determine whether further hospitalization will be required.
“This marks the second time Oliver’s health has deteriorated since his unlawful detention by the Ghana Police Service on September 23, 2024”.
Democracy Hub
A Troubling Detention
The Democracy Hub expressed grave concern over Oliver Barker-Vormawor’s prolonged detention and the apparent disregard for his health.
According to the statement despite numerous appeals filed with the Accra High Courts, Oliver Barker-Vormawor remains the only activist who has been denied bail, even though the 52 other protesters detained alongside him were released on bail just a day earlier, on October 9, 2024.
The activist’s continued detention raises concerns about the potential violation of his rights, particularly considering his deteriorating health.
The Democracy Hub described the situation as unjust, highlighting the lack of transparency and fairness in the handling of Oliver Barker-Vormawor’s case.
The group’s press statement underscored the urgency of addressing his health needs and emphasized that his well-being must be prioritized.
Health and Justice at Stake
As medical professionals at the Police Hospital work to determine Oliver Barker-Vormawor’s condition, the Democracy Hub underscored its commitment to monitoring the situation closely.
The pressure group and the organizers of the #StopGalamsey protest vowed to provide updates to the public as more information becomes available.
The group also called on Ghanaians to keep Oliver Barker-Vormawor in their thoughts and prayers during this critical time.
The press release expressed solidarity with the activist, quoting a verse from Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Democracy Hub reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing justice for Osagyefo Mawuse Oliver Barker-Vormawor and all those impacted by what they describe as unlawful detentions following peaceful protests against illegal mining activities and demands for government accountability.
The detentions of Barker-Vormawor and the other activists during the #OccupyJulorbiHouse protest have sparked national and international outrage, with most civil society groups, human rights advocates, and ordinary citizens questioning the Ghana Police Service’s handling of the situation.
The Member of Parliament for Madina Constituency and human rights, Hon. Lawyer Francis-Xavier Sosu Esq., recently filed a legal action against the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Attorney General (AG) on behalf of 32 protesters, alleging violations of their constitutional rights.
The lawsuit challenges the treatment of the protestors, who were advocating against the devastating environmental and social impact of Galamsey.
The protests, initially organized to raise awareness about the environmental devastation caused by illegal mining (galamsey) and to demand better governance, have become a flashpoint for discussions on citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of speech in Ghana.
Oliver Barker-Vormawor, a well-known advocate for democratic reforms and social justice, has long been a thorn in the current administration.
His detention and the delay in securing his release have led to speculation that he is being targeted for his outspoken criticism of the government.
In its statement, Democracy Hub urged the authorities to act swiftly to ensure that Osagyefo Mawuse Oliver Barker-Vormawor receives the necessary medical care and that his legal rights are respected.
The group reiterated its belief that justice will prevail, standing firm in its advocacy for the protection of the rights of citizens who engage in peaceful protest.
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