The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has called on prosecutors to consider granting bail to members of the Democracy Hub group, who were recently arrested for unlawful assembly.
These individuals were detained following protests in Accra, which authorities deemed to have exceeded the bounds of lawful demonstration.
Addressing the opening ceremony of the 2024 Association of Magistrates and Judges of Ghana, the AG emphasized the importance of upholding legal standards while ensuring justice is served swiftly.
Mr. Dame urged the police to expedite their investigations into the case, with the goal of concluding by the next court hearing.
He further stressed that those against whom sufficient evidence cannot be found should be discharged at the earliest possible date.
“I urge the police service to swiftly conclude investigations by the next adjournment and exclude all those against whom sufficient evidence cannot be found,” he remarked.
In his address, the Attorney General also advised the prosecution to consider relevant bail applications for the detained protesters, ensuring that the legal process respects the rights of the accused while balancing the need for public order.
Call for Expedited Galamsey Case Resolutions
In a related directive, Godfred Yeboah Dame called on the Chief Justice to ensure that all pending illegal mining (galamsey) cases are concluded within one month of the commencement of the new legal year.
Mr. Dame lamented the slow pace at which galamsey cases are being resolved, noting the significant impact that illegal mining has on the environment and the economy.
The Attorney General emphasized the need for the judiciary to prioritize these cases, given their national importance.
“It is beyond argument that the form of illegal mining, or galamsey, poses a severe threat to the environment, our water bodies, and the nation’s future,” Mr. Dame stated, urging for expedited justice in these matters.
The AG’s call comes in response to widespread concerns about the environmental and economic damage caused by illegal mining, as well as the public’s growing frustration over delays in the prosecution of those involved.
He stressed that resolving these cases swiftly would restore confidence in the justice system and deter future illegal activities.
With election season approaching, Mr. Dame also highlighted the importance of maintaining public order and safeguarding Ghana’s democratic processes, cautioning against any unlawful actions that could jeopardize the country’s stability.
“As we approach the 2024 elections, it is critical that we maintain the peace and protect the progress we have made in establishing democracy,” he said.
The Attorney General’s remarks signal the government’s firm stance on upholding law and order while ensuring that justice is delivered promptly in cases of both unlawful protests and illegal mining.
source: www.kumasimail.com
