Police arrest many as Ghanaians protest high cost of living

As protests over economic hardship in Accra continued for a third day, dozens of people were detained in Ghana.

While marching under the observation of riot police, protesters bemoaned the high cost of living and a lack of employment while some waved placards or the Ghanaian flag.

The nation that produces gold, oil, and cocoa has been struggling with its greatest economic crisis in a generation as a result of rising public debt.

“The average Ghanaian can’t afford three square meals (per day) … the government doesn’t care,” said 24-year-old unemployed protester Romeo, who like others at the demonstration was wearing a red beret.

To stop demonstrators from approaching Jubilee House, the presidential residence that organisers Democracy Hub have threatened to occupy, police barricaded the route.

According to police, 49 people were detained on the first day of the three-day protest for unlawful assembly and violating the public order act. On Saturday, there was no hint of any additional arrests, and everything seemed to be under control.

Last year, conflicts with police resulted from demonstrations against rising costs and other economic problems.

Even though the government signed a $3 billion, three-year loan agreement with the IMF in May, critics claim that not enough has been done to assist individuals who are struggling to make ends meet due to the protracted recession.

From 3.1% in 2022, economic growth is predicted to decelerate to 1.5% this year.

Source