Mawuse Oliver Barker-Vormawor, a prominent social activist and leader of the Democracy Hub pressure group, has announced that the group is considering taking legal action against the Ghanaian government over its policy of deporting foreign nationals involved in illegal mining, known locally as “galamsey.”
Barker-Vormawor criticized the policy, arguing that it circumvents proper legal procedures and could potentially grant “criminal immunity” to foreigners. He emphasized that deportation should only follow a criminal conviction, not be used as a shortcut to avoid accountability.
The activist voiced concerns about the government’s claim that deported individuals would be prosecuted in their home countries, particularly China. He pointed out the lack of an extradition agreement and legal framework for such actions.
The Democracy Hub leader also raised alarm about corruption within law enforcement, alleging that some police officers in mining regions accept bribes in exchange for granting bail to suspects. Barker-Vormawor argued that deporting illegal miners does little to address the root cause of the issue and only encourages repeat offenders.
Democracy Hub plans to challenge the policy in court, with a possible crowdfunding campaign to support the legal action. Barker-Vormawor also reiterated that the group’s strategy includes not only legal action but also protests and civic education to strengthen Ghana’s democracy and hold power accountable.
