The presidential candidate of the Movement for Change (Afrafranto Alliance), Alan Kyerematen, has described the protesters of the #StopGalamsey and #OccupyJulorbiHouse, organised by Democracy Hub, as the real heroes of Ghana.

Collectively commending the youth of Ghana for being resolute in the face of daunting economic challenges, he added that it is particularly challenging for them because there have not been jobs for them to do.

Addressing the press on Sunday, September 29, 2024, on the subject of the devastating effects of galamsey (small-scale illegal mining) in Ghana, which have affected major water bodies and forest reserves, Alan Kyerematen however, assured the youths of Ghana that there is hope.

“To the young people of Ghana, I’d like you to know, particularly those who have been arrested, that you are the heroes of our time. You have endured the pain of living through the hardest of times in our country with no jobs and no hope for the future.

“But, do not be dismayed. There is light at the end of the tunnel. Furthermore, do not be intimidated or be haunted by fear, but be inspired by the challenge of success. I stand solidly behind you and will fight with you shoulder to shoulder, not only to deal aggressively with the challenge of galamsey, but equally importantly, to fight to create a peaceful, prosperous, just and united Ghana that will create a better and brighter future for all Ghanaians, particularly the young people,” he said.

Alan Kyerematen also called on the state to, as a matter of urgency, release the arrested protesters, while urging the Attorney General and Minister of Justice not to deny the culprits of their rights to bail.

Themed #StopGalamsey and #OccupyJulorbiHouse, the protest sought to demand the cessation of galamsey activities in the country and to protest against bad governance and economic hardships.

The three-day protest was however cut short when day 2 of the protest was marred by violence, leading to the arrest of the protesters.

Protesters removed police blockades, burned party paraphernalia, and took keys from a police van in an attempt to prevent the police from towing their food truck.

The police have charged some arrested protesters with committing unlawful acts and breaching public peace, with the court remanding them for 2 weeks.

AE