Ghanaians are set to stage a three-day protest this week demanding government action on illegal mining (galamsey) and the release of 54 activists detained for demonstrating against the illicit activity.
The three-day protest, begins today, Thursday, October 3, 2024.
The protest, organised by the "FreeTheCitizens" and "SayNoToGalamsey" movements, aims to shed light on the ongoing environmental devastation caused by illegal mining, locally referred to as galamsey.
Come outside and let’s do this for mother Ghana. #FreetheCitizens #SayNoToGalamsey pic.twitter.com/iL4XzB832n
— I’m in Spain but the S is Silent (@KojoJuniorr) October 3, 2024
Running until Saturday, October 5, 2024, the demonstration is set to follow an approved route, starting from Legon Okponglo and culminating at the Black Star Square.
Participants will pass through significant locations, including the Legon Stadium, Okponglo Traffic Light, Shiashie, Shangri-La, and Airport Traffic Light, making stops at the National Service Secretariat, the Electoral Commission Office, Parliament, and ending at Independence Square.
#FreetheCitizens #StopGalamoseyNow
— WRLD BEST ⚡️🦅 (@joey_klark) October 3, 2024
pic.twitter.com/SuWVdutDmP
With strong momentum on social media, thousands of supporters are expected to join the march, amplifying calls for the government to take decisive action against the illegal mining practices that are ravaging Ghana’s forests and water bodies.
The protest also seeks to address the wrongful arrests of their fellow activists.
The Ghana Police Service has issued a warning, stating they will disperse any crowds if there are reasonable grounds to believe the demonstration could lead to a breach of peace.
Don’t say anything, just retweet 🇬🇭✊🏼#FreetheCitizens #StopGalamseyNow
— Maame Ama Adoma (@MaameAmaAdoma) October 3, 2024
pic.twitter.com/0Aqu9idPmt