We have learned that the Greater Accra Regional Command of the Ghana Police Service has decided to withdraw its application to prohibit the organizers of the ‘#DumsorMustStop’ demonstration from proceeding with their plans. This decision comes after the organizers agreed to alter their initial route for the protest.
The application, which was filed on May 20, has been withdrawn by the Ghana Police Service, as confirmed by EIB Network’s Legal Affairs Correspondent, Murtala Inusah. This development follows the organizers’ willingness to modify the planned route for the protest.
During a court session on Friday, May 24, 2024, Justice Lydia Osei Marfo acknowledged the withdrawal of the police's application, stating, “The application is struck out as withdrawn.”
Prior to this decision, the Accra Region Police Command had advised the organizers to consider relocating the planned protest venue and adjusting the timing for the event. However, when their request was not granted, the police took legal action to seek an order prohibiting the demonstration from taking place.
The case was titled “Inspector General of Police vs Yvonne Nelson, Selorm Dramani Dzramado and Henry Osei Akoto,” with Chief Inspector Jonas Laweh representing the police as the applicants. The respondents, however, were not present during the court proceedings.
Background information reveals that actress Yvonne Nelson, who had previously organized a similar protest in 2015, expressed concerns about the negative impact of intermittent power cuts, locally known as ‘dumsor,’ on her business. Despite meeting with the Ghana Police Service to notify them of the intended protest, disagreements arose regarding the proposed route and endpoint of the demonstration.
It is important to note that the withdrawal of the police's application signifies a shift in the approach towards addressing the concerns raised by the organizers. This development also highlights the significance of open communication and cooperation between law enforcement agencies and citizens in addressing societal issues.
As the situation continues to unfold, it is essential for all parties involved to engage in constructive dialogue and collaboration to ensure that public demonstrations are conducted in a peaceful and lawful manner, taking into consideration both the rights of citizens to express their grievances and the need to maintain public safety and security.
We will continue to monitor this matter and provide updates as it progresses.
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