The Circuit Court in Accra has granted bail to 31 additional protesters involved in the anti-galamsey demonstration, bringing the total number of protesters granted bail to 52.
Each individual was admitted to bail in the sum of GH¢20,000 with a surety. This follows the release of 21 protesters on Monday, October 7, 2024, by two separate High Courts.
His Honour Kwabena Obiri Yeboah, who presided over the Circuit Court, stressed the importance of protecting the fundamental human rights of the accused.
The final batch of cases addressed on Tuesday included 11 protesters who had been detained since September 23.
Among those still in custody is Oliver Barker-Vormawor, a leading member of the Democracy Hub, who has been denied bail.
Out of the 53 protesters arrested, 52 have now been granted bail, including 11 individuals who were on remand at Nsawam Prison.
The accused protesters, who have pleaded not guilty, face charges of conspiracy, unlawful assembly, causing unlawful damage, offensive conduct conducive to the breach of peace, and assault on a public officer.
Among the accused are Dorcas Sharifa Sulemana, alias Wise Girl GH, Emmanuel Attah, Alhassan Hudu, Raymsa Godson Jones, Isaac Agyapong, Shadrack Amoah, Otieku Alex, Raymond Sefa Boakye, Kalian Kofi Komashie, Daniel Agyei, and Siah Kwame Daniel.
One protester, Grace Asantewaa, remains at large, with a bench warrant issued for her arrest.
Additionally, Funny Otoo, who is currently receiving medical treatment at the Police Hospital, has also been granted bail, despite her plea not being taken yet.
This development marks a significant milestone in the legal proceedings surrounding the #ReOccupyJulorbiHouse protests, demonstrating the court’s recognition of the protesters’ constitutional rights.
In a post-hearing interview, Lawyer Nelson Noble Amedewonu emphasized that all accused individuals must be presumed innocent until proven guilty.
He noted that although a recent bail application was denied, this decision raised legal concerns that will be addressed in court in the coming days.
“We raised similar concerns at the High Court, and our legal team will argue why these issues should not obstruct the granting of bail,” said Amedewonu.
He also highlighted the prosecution’s failure to submit essential documents, stating that the court has ordered them to do so before the next hearing.
“So far, the documents they have provided are insufficient, and we will request further details,” he added.
Looking ahead, Amedewonu expressed confidence in addressing their applications at the High Court in the next session.
“We remain committed to securing the release of the accused and ensuring that justice is served transparently and fairly,” he concluded.
