Prominent legal practitioner Nana Obiri Boahen has strongly criticized lawyer Elorm Ama Ababio, popularly known as Ama Governor, for participating in the #OccupyJulorbiHouse protest organized by Democracy Hub against illegal mining, also known as galamsey.
Lawyer Nana Obiri Boahen expressed disapproval of Ama Governor’s appearance for the protest particularly her nose piercing, asserting that such conduct is unacceptable in Ghanaian society.
In an interview with a Kumasi-based radio station, Lawyer Nana Obiri Boahen condemned the behavior of some of the demonstrators, labeling their actions as highly undisciplined.
He expressed frustration with the protest, led by Democracy Hub’s Oliver Barker-Vormawor and Funny Otoo, claiming that Ghanaians are tired of these demonstrations.
While acknowledging that the 1992 Constitution grants citizens the right to protest, Lawyer Nana Obiri Boahen argued that there should be limits to these actions.
He questioned why the protesters chose to demonstrate in the capital rather than in areas directly affected by illegal mining.
The former deputy general secretary of the NPP, also took aim at NDC flagbearer John Mahama for his remarks supporting the protesters, accusing Mahama of desperation in his bid for re-election.
Lawyer Nana Obiri Boahen expressed disagreement with those calling for a permanent ban on galamsey, stating that licensed miners depend on the industry for their livelihoods and that such a blanket ban would be unfair.
Background:
More than 50 protesters, including key organizer Oliver Barker-Vormawor, were arrested and denied bail after being accused of blocking roads, dismantling police barriers, and obstructing traffic.
The police denied reports that a pregnant woman, Vera Lamptey, was among those detained.
The heavy-handedness of the police has been widely condemned, including by John Mahama, who called it an abuse of citizens’ rights to protest.