Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the vice-presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has expressed grave concern over what she describes as the “high-handed” treatment of peaceful protesters during the recent three-day demonstration in Accra. Her remarks follow the arrests and harsh handling of demonstrators by the police, including reports of denied access to food, family, and legal counsel, as well as the remand of some protesters, including a pregnant woman.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang condemned the excessive response of the authorities, stating that it raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to fighting illegal mining, also known as “galamsey.” She pointed out the disparity between the aggressive actions taken against protesters and the leniency seemingly shown to those responsible for the environmental devastation caused by illegal mining.
“It is incongruous that those actively behind illegal mining are walking free and profiting, while peaceful protesters concerned about the destruction of our water bodies, forests, and farmlands are being suppressed,” she remarked.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang called for a redirection of the government’s focus toward addressing the harmful effects of galamsey, which poses a serious threat to Ghana’s water resources, public health, and food security, particularly the destruction of cocoa farms.
“These feudal, authoritarian, and outdated reactions to peaceful protests have no place in a 21st-century democracy,” she stated. She urged the government to immediately cease the persecution of the demonstrators and release those in custody without conditions.
The NDC running mate further pointed out that peaceful protests are a fundamental human right and must not be suppressed. She criticized the government’s actions, describing them as reminiscent of authoritarian rule, and called on authorities to adopt a more responsible and humane approach to handling civil dissent.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang also emphasized the need for sustainable solutions to illegal mining. She highlighted the NDC’s pledge to provide proper training for small-scale miners, attach mining engineers to their operations, and offer expert advisory services to ensure responsible mining practices that protect Ghana’s environment and natural resources.
As tensions rise over the government’s handling of protests and the ongoing galamsey crisis, the vice-presidential candidate’s comments reflect growing frustration over the apparent disconnect between the authorities’ rhetoric and their actions.
