The Ghana Police Service has taken decisive action by securing a restriction notice against an upcoming three-day anti-galamsey demonstration intended to be held at the Jubilee House. This protest, which was scheduled from April 28 to April 30, 2025, has been organised by the Generational Right Protection Society (GRPS), a civil pressure group led by renowned media personality Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah.
According to an official statement released by the Police, the organisers have been duly informed of the application for the restriction, which is expected to be heard at the Accra High Court on Friday, April 25. The move follows what appears to be increasing concern by law enforcement regarding the security implications of such a high-profile demonstration at the seat of government.
The primary aim of the protest is to demand immediate and robust governmental intervention to halt the spread of illegal mining activities, known locally as 'galamsey'. These activities have long been blamed for the destruction of Ghana’s lush forests, contamination of water bodies, and displacement of rural communities. The organisers are pushing for sustainable action that protects the environment and upholds the rights of affected citizens.
Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem, Afrifa-Mensah clarified that the demonstration is not an act of rebellion or an attempt to undermine the government’s image. Instead, it is a civic movement aimed at pressing for urgent action on a matter of national concern. He further noted that, depending on the reception and discipline of participants, the protest could potentially extend beyond the planned three days, lasting up to a month if necessary.
Afrifa-Mensah expressed his unwavering commitment to seeing the protest through, stating that unless the court grants the injunction, nothing would stop well-meaning Ghanaians from exercising their constitutional right to peaceful demonstration. He also reiterated that the protest will be peaceful, well-coordinated, and devoid of any form of violence or confrontation.
The Police, however, appear determined to manage the situation proactively. Their move to seek a restriction order reflects an effort to prevent any form of disruption or potential breach of national security protocols around the Jubilee House. While this has sparked mixed reactions, the matter now rests with the High Court.
This unfolding development has added another layer to Ghana’s ongoing debate over illegal mining and the government’s response to environmental degradation. Many citizens continue to voice concern over the slow pace of enforcement and regulation in dealing with the galamsey menace. The decision by the Police to intervene may either be seen as a protective measure or a limitation of civil freedoms, depending on the court’s final ruling.
With the eyes of the nation fixed on the outcome, the coming days will be crucial in determining not only the fate of the protest but also the wider conversation around public engagement, environmental protection, and the balance of rights and responsibilities in democratic governance.
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