Accra High Court grants high bail to Ama Governor and eight other anti-galamsey protesters

An Accra High Court, presided over by Justice Comfort Tasiame, has granted bail to lawyer and activist Ama Governor, along with eight other individuals involved in recent anti-galamsey protests. Each of the accused has been granted bail set at GH¢70,000 with two guarantors, and they are required to report to the police once a week.

The other individuals granted bail are Emmanuel Gyan, Emmanuel Kwabena Addo, Ziblim Yakubu, Oheneba Prempeh, Philip Owusu Kwabena, Akisibik Desmond, Von Coffie, and Sadik Yakubu. Their arrest followed demonstrations aimed at raising awareness about the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey. Activists have repeatedly voiced concerns over the severe damage to farmlands, water bodies, and forests due to these unregulated mining practices.

During the court proceedings, the defense team stressed that the protests were peaceful, focusing on advocating for environmental protection without inciting violence. They underscored the protesters’ right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly in pursuit of social justice.

Justice Tasiame acknowledged the importance of the protesters’ cause, highlighting the significant environmental issues at stake, but also emphasized the necessity of maintaining law and order during public demonstrations.

The case, prosecuted by the office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, attracted criticism from legal experts who condemned the state’s decision to detain the protesters beyond the legally permissible forty-eight hours before bringing them to court. Many viewed the detention as overly harsh, considering the protesters were advocating against galamsey, which poses a serious threat to Ghana’s natural resources, including water bodies and forest reserves.

The bail conditions allow the accused temporary relief from custody while ensuring their availability for future court proceedings. The decision comes at a time of growing public support for initiatives aimed at curbing illegal mining and protecting the environment, making the timing of the court’s ruling particularly significant.