Prominent activist and #FixTheCountry convener, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, has expressed deep disappointment following the suspension of Day 2 of the “Galamsey Must Fall” demonstration, which was originally planned as a three-day protest against illegal mining activities (galamsey) in Ghana. The demonstration, which started on Monday, April 28, was supposed to continue today, April 29, and tomorrow, April 30.
In a heartfelt Facebook post, Barker-Vormawor revealed he had just learned that the protest had been called off, describing his feelings as “heavy-hearted.” He questioned whether the country was losing the battle against environmental degradation simply due to low turnout at the demonstration.
Barker-Vormawor criticized the decision to cancel the protest because of low attendance, emphasizing that true conviction and urgency are demonstrated by persistence even in the face of setbacks, as seen in previous demonstrations where small numbers and arrests did not deter participants.
He emphasized that the fight against galamsey is not about clout or political capital, but about preserving Ghana’s environment and future.
Barker-Vormawor also urged the organizers and the broader activist community to reflect not only on what went wrong but on how to build a stronger, more unified movement. He called for collaboration across NGO lines and civic spaces, stressing the need for a larger, better-planned march in defense of the environment.
