In Ghana, a youth-led protest intended to address corruption, high living costs, and the delay in passing an anti-LGBTQ bill into law has been halted by a court order.
The protest named “The Gen-Z demo” was organized by a coalition of civil society and pressure groups and was planned to run from July 31 to August 6.
Similar to protests in Kenya and Uganda, the organizers aimed to push President Nana Akufo-Addo’s government to tackle the devaluation of the cedi currency and the rising living expenses.
The high court, on the grounds of security and logistical concerns raised by the police, decided to block the protest which was supposed to last several days.
Commenting on the ruling, Bernard Mornah, one of the protest organizers, expressed disappointment saying, “This protest was an opportunity for the youth to express their grievances and demand accountability.”
He added, “Preventing this demonstration stifles our plea for change and undermines our democratic freedoms.”
Another organizer, Ebenezer Havor, voiced frustration over the court’s decision, emphasizing the importance of addressing economic issues, corruption, and the pending Sexual and Ghanaian Family Values Bill.
The bill, which is contentious and aims to restrict LGBTQ rights, was approved by Ghana’s parliament earlier but awaits the president’s endorsement.
Despite the cancellation of the protest, Ghana continues to face economic struggles, with inflation hovering at 22.8 per cent in June 2024, well above the central bank’s target range.
The country, known for its gold and cocoa production, has been grappling with external debt concerns, leading to a multi-billion-dollar debt relief pact with the IMF in 2022.
According to the latest Afrobarometer report, dissatisfaction with governance and leadership in Africa is on the rise, with youth showing decreasing faith in leaders’ ability to deliver meaningful progress.
The blocked demonstration in Ghana highlights the growing divide between the youth and the government, reflecting broader sentiments across the continent.
Despite the setback, the advocacy groups have vowed to persist in their efforts through alternative channels.
“Our voices cannot be silenced,” affirmed Mornah. “We will explore fresh avenues to demand the necessary changes in Ghana.”
AFP