Strong Condemnation of Unlawful Arrests and Treatment of Peaceful Protestors

To - Inspector General of Police, Dr. Dampare

I hope this message finds you well, though it is written with profound concern regarding recent events. As a dedicated citizen, feminist, and youth activist, I believe it is crucial to express my deep dismay and outrage at the arrest and inhumane treatment of innocent citizens who chose to participate in a peaceful protest against what they perceived as misrule by the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government.

First and foremost, I wish to emphasize that these arrests are not only unlawful but also deeply shameful and regressive, infringing upon the constitutional rights of our fellow citizens. Article 21(1)(d) of the Ghanaian Constitution explicitly guarantees the right to freedom of assembly and demonstration. There should be no room for such egregious violations of this fundamental human right in a democratic nation governed by the rule of law.

It is with great sadness that I report that some of the individuals unlawfully arrested during the protest have had their phones illegally confiscated and have endured physical beatings and various forms of inhumane and degrading treatment at the hands of the Ghana Police Service. These actions not only contravene our constitution but also transgress international human rights standards.

What makes this situation even more reprehensible is that it unfolds under the leadership of an Inspector General of Police (IGP) whom many believed would bring a different perspective to law enforcement. This heinous brutality is unacceptable and tarnishes the reputation of our nation.

As a dedicated advocate for human rights, I strongly condemn this disgraceful conduct by the Ghana Police Service unequivocally. I firmly demand the immediate release of all unlawfully arrested and detained protestors, by the constitution and the principles of justice, democracy, and human rights.

Mr. IGP, you have enjoyed the support and goodwill of countless Ghanaians since your appointment, and we expected a leadership that prioritizes the protection of citizens' constitutional rights and freedoms. Enough is enough of institutionalized tyranny, and I urge you to act swiftly to release the protestors and ensure that such violations do not happen again.

In conclusion, I call upon all citizens who value the democratic ideals upon which our nation was founded to unite and demand justice and the immediate release of those unjustly detained. Our collective voice can bring about the change we need to see in our great nation.

Sincerely,
Bright Botchway
Citizen, Feminist, and Youth Activist