The organisers of the 'Dumsor' vigil have condemned the Ghana Police Service over its decision to seek a court injunction against their planned demonstration, calling it an act in bad faith.
Despite initial discussions between the organisers and the police, they have filed a writ at the High Court to block the event.
In an interview with JoyNews, one of the lead organisers, Selorm Dramani, argued that the actions of the police constitute an attempt to curtail their constitutional right to protest.
Mr Dramani stated that protestors are obliged to provide notice to the police for such events, allowing for a collaborative approach to ensure peaceful assembly.
He explained that while the organisers agreed to modify the timing of the vigil, they insisted on maintaining the location at Revolution Square due to its historical significance and proximity to the seat of government.
“We stood our ground and told the police that we would not do anything about the venue. The venue would not be changed because if the venue were to change, that would even affect the principles behind holding the vigil. We chose the Revolution Square for its historical significance and its proximity to the presidency or the seat of government. So, we told the police and made it clear that it does not even lie in the mouth of the police to relocate our venue to the Independence Square”.
He disagreed with the police's assertion that the planned location for the protest, Revolution Square, is a security zone.
Mr Dramani highlighted the absence of any reference to the area as a security zone in the police affidavit submitted to the court.
He noted that if the Revolution Square was indeed a security zone, the police should be capable of effectively managing protesters within the vicinity of such installations.
"If the police continue to extend these threat-bare excuses that the sub-region is in turmoil because of acts of terrorism, even in countries that are going through these acts of terrorism, there are demonstrations and protests going on there successfully.
“If there is a paranoia hanging over the presidency regarding their incompetent management of the energy sector, which is resulting in this devastating effect of dumsor, the president should admit that. He should not be using the police as their strong arm to be coiling our right to demonstrate,” he noted.
Credit: Isaac Kafui Nyanyovor