Protesters from the Democracy Hub took to the streets of Accra in a spirited demonstration against illegal mining, known as galamsey, culminating in the burning of New Patriotic Party (NPP) paraphernalia at the 37 Roundabout.
The protest, aimed at pressuring the government to protect the country’s water bodies from the destructive impact of galamsey, saw heightened tensions as demonstrators dismantled and set fire to NPP-branded materials.
The atmosphere was charged with energy and defiance, with rhythmic chants of an NPP campaign song reverberating through the streets, amplifying the standoff between the demonstrators and the governing party.
The symbolic burning of the party’s paraphernalia reflected the protesters’ frustration with what they perceive as the government’s failure to address the ongoing environmental crisis caused by illegal mining. The chants, while echoing the presence of the ruling party, were also a clarion call for change.
In response to the demonstration, the Ghana Police Service has appealed to the public for cooperation, especially in light of the significant traffic disruptions caused by the protest.
“The Ghana Police Service wishes to once again urge the motoring public to cooperate with us as we work to manage the traffic situation caused by the Democracy Hub demonstrators. Our officers are on the ground to ensure a smooth flow of traffic,” the police said in a statement.
The police thanked the public for their patience and cooperation as efforts to manage the situation continued. The demonstration is part of growing public discontent over the impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s water bodies and the government’s perceived inaction in tackling the issue.
