Organisers of the #OccupyJulorbiHouse protest, Democracy Hub have met with the leadership of the Ghana Armed Forces ahead of their planned month-long picket at the Jubilee House in December 2023.
Democracy announced shortly after its three days #OccupyJulorbiHouse protest in September where forty-nine of the protesters including a BBC journalist and his cameraman were arrested that its next step was to picket at the Jubilee House from December 1 to December 31 to demand swift measures to lessen the economic hardship of Ghanaians.
The purpose of the meeting, according to Democracy Hub was to highlight the mutual commitment between it and the Ghana Armed Forces toward safeguarding and improving Ghana’s democracy.
Democracy Hub in a statement indicated that it was assured of the Armed Forces unflinching support in the exercise of its right to assembly as guaranteed by Ghana’s constitution.
Below is the full statement.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 26, 2023
Democracy Hub meets with the Ghana Armed Forces
Accra, Ghana – On October 25, 2023, representatives from Democracy Hub, convenors of the FixTheCountry and OccupyJulorbiHouse protests, engaged in a productive 2-hour closed-door meeting with the Chief of Defence Staff and Senior Officials of the Ghana Armed Forces.
The purpose of this meeting was to recognize the two organizations as partners and to affirm our mutual commitment to improving and safeguarding Ghana’s democracy. During the course of the discussion, both parties engaged in a candid and open dialogue, addressing various important aspects.
As we move forward in preparation for our upcoming #OccupyJulorbi 2.0 protest scheduled for December, we are heartened by the military’s dedication to upholding the rule of law. Moreover, we received assurances from the Ghana Armed Forces regarding their unwavering belief in the sanctity of the freedom of assembly. They affirmed that this fundamental right is an integral and non-negotiable element of our democratic journey.
In the spirit of fostering a healthy and democratic society, we look forward to continuous peaceful and constructive dialogue as we continue to advocate for positive change in Ghana. We believe that such engagements are essential to ensure the growth and development of our democracy.
Sincerely,
Convenors
