KEY POINTS
- Barker-Vormawor denied bail for the third time.
- The Democracy Hub calls the detention politically motivated.
- Activists demand judicial independence to uphold bail right
Oliver Barker-Vormawor, a convener of The Democracy Hub and a leading figure in the #FixTheCountry movement, has been denied bail for the third time, a decision the Attorney General pushed for. The Democracy Hub described this as part of “politically motivated persistent efforts” to keep Barker-Vormawor in detention. The group, which also organized the recent #StopGalamseyNow and #ReoccupyJulorbiHouse demonstrations, expressed disappointment at this development.
Barker-Vormawor’s bail rejection draws criticism from his supporters
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Oct. 9, The Democracy Hub said the court approved the Attorney General’s request to extend the remand reflects a pattern of government repression. The Hub claims the government seeks to silence critics like Barker-Vormawor who challenges the status quo.
The Democracy Hub said the court approved the Attorney General’s request to extend Barker-Vormawor’s remand again, which the group regrets. The Hub views these actions as a pattern of government repression aimed at silencing critics like Barker-Vormawor, who challenge the status quo.
“The Akufo-Addo administration is determined to imprison Barker-Vormawor before leaving power. Their three-year prosecution of him on treason charges is reportedly falling apart. This deliberate move is to suppress those who oppose the government’s injustices,” the group statement read
According to a report by Myjoyonline, Barker-Vormawor’s recent arrest occurred two weeks ago during an anti-galamsey (illegal mining) protest, and the court ruling to deny him bail, which came on Tuesday, followed opposition from the Attorney General’s Office. This decision follows similar rulings by a Circuit Court and a High Court in Accra.
Activists urge courts to uphold bail rights and constitutional values
The Hub claims the state is politically targeting Barker-Vormawor, aiming to punish him for his activism. They argue that his continued detention is a direct assault on the core values of justice, democracy, and free speech in Ghana. The group further accused the police of acting under state orders to unfairly target civilians.
The statement also highlighted Barker-Vormawor’s denial of timely medical care, calling it “callous treatment” that jeopardizes his health and violates his fundamental rights.
The Democracy Hub called for justice, urging the judiciary to act independently and uphold the constitutional right to bail. “Oliver Barker-Vormawor’s persecution is a violation of his rights and an affront to Ghana’s democratic values,” the group said, vowing to continue advocating for his freedom and others facing similar reprisals for their activism.
“We will not be intimidated,” they added.
