EFL leader Ernesto Yeboah granted “harsh” GhC100k bail

A court in Ghana’s capital, Accra has granted a ¢100,000 bail to the leader of the Economic Fighters League, Ernesto Yeboah.

Mr Yeboah was arrested on Saturday, June 6 at a Black Lives Matter vigil held near the Black Star Square and has been charged with failure to notify the police of a special event contrary to section 1(1) of Act 491.

Mr. Yeboah pleaded not guilty and the court granted him the bail with three sureties; two of whom are to be public servants, reported CNR.

His lawyers told the court the bail terms were harsh and excessive because his alleged offence was misdemeanor and that he already has a police enquiry bail. But the judge declined to revise the bail terms.

The case was subsequently adjourned to 7th of July 2020.

Background

Armed police and military personnel moved to the Black Star Square, where the #BlackLivesMatter event was being held, and arrested Mr Yeboah bringing the peaceful event to a halt.

The police had said the event which was described as a protest was not authorized. But organizers of the vigil produced evidence indicating they appropriately notified the police in line with the Public Order Act.

A day after, Mr. Yeboah was seen in a video announcing his release.

He says, his continuous arrest will not discourage him from seeking freedom for Africans and the continent.

“The handcuffs are off. But as I keep saying, do not be afraid of the handcuff. It is with the handcuff that we will seek our freedom. It is with the handcuff that Africa shall unite. It is with the handcuff that we shall access economic freedom in our lifetime,” he said.

It is, however, unclear what charges the police will be pressing against him in court.

BlackLivesMatter Campaign

The Economic Fighters League held the vigil to protest against racism and police brutalities meted out to black people across the world.

The latest incident has been reported in the United States City of Minneapolis that resulted in the murder of George Floyd, who was held in police custody.

There has been widespread protest across the United States and other countries around the world. 

Earlier, some of the protesters who were angry over the disruption of their vigil and subsequent arrest of Ernesto Yeboah launched a social media campaign demanding the release of the young Ghanaian activist.

The supporters of the vigil further demanded the immediate release of their leader.

By Jonathan Ofori, Daily Mail GH