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The High Court has denied bail to Oliver Barker-Vormawor, a lead figure in the Democracy Hub protest, while granting GH₵20,000 bail to five co-accused, including Felicity Nelson.
This decision leaves Barker-Vormawor in remand despite pleas for equal treatment.
The court’s ruling emphasized that the Circuit Court must begin his prosecution within 72 hours or reconsider bail.
The denial stems from his previous bail release on treason felony charges, prompting the court’s caution.
The presiding judge cited Section 96(5c) of the Criminal Procedure Act, expressing concerns that Barker-Vormawor might reoffend if granted bail.
In contrast, his lawyer, Justice Srem Sai, argued that the activist had diligently appeared in court for three years in his treason case, emphasizing that the current charges are less severe.
Srem Sai urged the court to focus on his client’s commitment to standing trial, calling the bail refusal unjust.
Meanwhile, other activists, including Ama Governor and eight others, have been granted bail of GH₵70,000 with two sureties each, a stark contrast to Barker-Vormawor’s fate.
These protesters, part of a group charged with unlawful assembly, unlawful damage, and offensive conduct, must report to the police weekly.
Their release follows an appeal and came despite strong opposition from the state, raising hopes for the Democracy Hub’s cause.
Arimiyaw Wusama, convenor of the National Coalition Against Illegal Mining, speaking on ABC Midday News, welcomed the bail but expressed disappointment that Barker-Vormawor remained in custody.
He called for dialogue with political leaders, noting the president’s denial of involvement in the arrests.
“It’s unfortunate,” Wusama said, urging presidential candidates to take a stand on illegal mining, “Let us hear from them… that they wouldn’t turn their backs on the fight against galamsey.”
