Police file injunction to halt Gen-Z Demonstration

The Ghana Police Service has filed an injunction to prevent the highly anticipated Gen-Z demonstration from taking place.

The seven-day protest, slated for July 31 to August 6, 2024, is expected to draw over 2 million young people to the streets of Accra.

This massive turnout aims to highlight severe economic hardships disproportionately affecting the youth, pushing many into drug addiction, dangerous migrations, and even into the ranks of terrorist groups.

Protesters also plan to challenge the government’s heavy taxation policies, including the contentious betting tax, COVID-19 tax, sanitation tax, and increased internet data taxes.

In addition, the demonstration seeks to voice Gen-Z’s strong disapproval of the alleged widespread corruption and nepotism within the incumbent administration.

The organisers argue that these economic and political issues are stifling opportunities for young people, exacerbating poverty, and fostering social instability.

The court is scheduled to hear the injunction application on Tuesday, July 30, 2024.

In response to the police’s legal action, the conveners of the protest have vowed to defend their constitutional right to demonstrate.

They cite provisions that protect citizens’ rights to assemble and express their grievances.

Drawing inspiration from the recent large-scale protests by young Kenyans, which led to significant political changes, the Gen-Z Demonstration organisers are determined to make their voices heard.