The lead convener of Democracy Hub, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, has been admitted to the Police Hospital after falling ill while in police custody.

According to a statement signed by Democracy Hub, Barker-Vormawor was taken to the hospital in the early hours of Thursday, October 10, 2024, due to serious concerns over his health.

The statement further noted that medical tests are being conducted to assess his condition and determine whether further hospitalization is necessary.

“Democracy Hub is deeply troubled to report that our convener, activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor, was rushed to the Police Hospital earlier this morning due to serious concerns over his health. Oliver remains in police custody, having been one of the 53 activists unjustly detained during the #StopGalamsey and #OccupyJulorbiHouse protests on September 21, 2024.

“Currently, medical professionals are conducting tests to assess his condition and determine whether hospitalization is necessary. This marks the second time Oliver's health has deteriorated since his unlawful detention by the Ghana Police Service on September 23, 2024,” the statement read.

Democracy Hub expressed concern for Barker-Vormawor’s well-being and urged the public to keep him in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

“We call on the public to keep Oliver in their thoughts and prayers during this critical time and to remain patient as we await further details on his condition.”

Oliver Barker-Vormawor was denied bail on October 7, 2024, by the Accra High Court, presided over by Justice Comfort Tasiame. The judge cited the need for further investigation and concerns about potential public unrest if he were released.

Barker-Vormawor is currently standing trial for treason and, according to the court, cannot be granted bail for another offence.

He was arrested alongside 53 other activists and charged with unlawful assembly, unlawful damage, assaulting a public officer, and offensive conduct conducive to breaching the peace. These charges stem from the #StopGalamsey protests at the 37 Intersection in Accra on September 21 and 22, 2024.

Read full statement below:



MAG/OGB