Elorm Ama Governor-Ababio, Lawyer and social media influencer together with Oliver Barker Vormawor and 30 other Democracy Hub protesters have filed a lawsuit against the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Justice, alleging violations of their fundamental rights.
The lawsuit, filed on behalf of 32 protestors, claims that their rights to freedom of movement, the right to protest and demonstrate, personal liberty, respect for human dignity, and freedom of expression were infringed upon during a recent demonstration.
The protest, which took place between September 21-23, turned violent when demonstrators clashed with police forces.
Madina MP, Francis-Xavier Kojo Sosu, who is representing the protestors, is seeking an order from the High Court to enforce these fundamental human rights.
He is also advocating for protection against unlawful and arbitrary arrest, detention, malicious prosecution, the right to legal representation, and the right to bail pending trial.
The protesters’ grievances stem from an incident where they were accused of blocking roads, dismantling barriers, obstructing traffic, and burning properties at Accra’s 37 Roundabout.
Currently, 53 protesters are remanded; 9 are in prison, and the rest are in police custody.
The prosecution has denied any mistreatment of the accused, insisting that they received proper care, including adequate food from a popular local restaurant. However, defense lawyers have cited harsh conditions and are pushing for the release of the protestors on bail.
Prosecutors have opposed bail, citing concerns over unknown addresses of the accused. The judge has denied bail applications, remanding the protestors until October 8.
