‘Nkrumah smiles as timidity wails’, I came here to chill, disappointed IGP – A recap of day 1 of #FreeTheCitizens protest

A three-day protest organized by Concerned Citizens Against Galamsey kicked off on Thursday, October 3, 2024, in Accra.

Activists demanded the immediate release of 53 Democracy Hub protesters, who were arrested during an anti-galamsey demonstration from September 21-23.

They also called for an end to illegal mining in the country.

While the majority of demonstrators rallied for the cause, some had different motivations. One protester, in an interview, mentioned that he was participating just for fun.

“I just came here to chill,” he said.

Lawyer Elorm Ama Ababio, popularly known as Ama Governor, who is currently in police custody after being remanded for participating in a similar demonstration, wrote a letter to the protesters from her cell, praising their efforts.

In her letter, she stated: “Dear Comrades, When I say ‘Aluba!’ You respond, ‘Continua!’ Ghana has never seen a day as great as October 3, 2024, when the youth of Ghana, despite our differences, united to march against the devastating effects of illegal mining (galamsey) on the health, resources, and well-being of our people. Today, we demand government accountability and the release of political prisoners.

“Nkrumah smiles as timidity wails in the face of the resilience shown in this historic protest.

“The youth of Ghana have not only recommitted to the struggle started by our foremothers and fathers, but they have reignited the long-lost hope of realizing Nkrumah’s Ghana. A great day indeed, for a new dawn is upon us. ALUTA, sisters and brothers!”

Media practitioner and Onua TV host, Blessed Godsbrain Smart, popularly known as Captain Smart, also shared his thoughts during the protest.

Speaking to journalist George Ayisi from GhanaWeb, he expressed disappointment in the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akufo-Dampare, for failing to tackle the issue of galamsey.

“I’m disappointed in the Ghana Police Service and I’m disappointed in the IGP. Those responsible for galamsey are in the forests, polluting our water bodies, yet the Ghana Police Service claims they are unaware of these illegal activities.

“The Ghana Police Service wants us to believe they don’t know illegal mining is happening at Ankobra or River Pra? They can arrest demonstrators in Accra, but they can’t stop galamsey in Ankobra?” Captain Smart said.

Another protester, identified as Afia, accused politicians of greed and complicity in illegal mining operations.

“Please stop the galamsey. We know some of you are part owners of these operations. You’ve made money from the roads you should have built, from the E-levy, and from our taxes. It’s enough. Too much greed, you people are too selfish,” she said.

The demonstration, which will run until October 5, aims to raise awareness of the devastating impact of illegal mining on the country’s environment and water bodies and to push for the release of their fellow protesters.

The march started from Legon Okponglo and will proceed to Black Star Square, following a route approved by the police. The second day of the protest is ongoing as of 7:00 AM on October 4, 2024.