ACCRA, Ghana November 13,2023 - In response to the Israeli occupation of Gaza and the ongoing bombings in Palestine, Ghanaians have joined the global wave of demonstrations. Many in Ghana have been dissatisfied with President Nana Akufo-Addo's recent endorsement of Israel, especially given the escalating violence against Palestinians in Gaza.
Massive protests erupted in Accra, Ghana's capital, where people voiced their opposition to the Israeli government's actions and President Akufo-Addo's stance. The streets of Accra were filled with voices from the Ghanaian and Palestinian communities, political leaders, educational bodies, and various civic groups, all united in their support for the Palestinian cause.
The Accra Collective of the Socialist Movement of Ghana and the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) jointly organized this peaceful protest. The demonstration aimed to express opposition to the Israeli occupation of Palestine, deemed a violation of international law. Thousands of Ghanaians, carrying placards and waving Palestinian flags, joined in solidarity with Palestine. This demonstration was part of a global movement against what is perceived as a genocide in Palestine by Israeli forces.
The urgency of the protest intensified with the latest developments in Gaza and the West Bank, where Israeli forces have launched extensive attacks, primarily affecting women and children. The Gaza Ministry of Health reports that since October 7, at least 9,061 Palestinians, including 3,760 children and 2,326 women, have been killed in these attacks, with over 32,000 injured, including 6,360 children and 4,891 women.
The demonstrators, fueled by passion and sorrow, pledged to amplify their calls for justice. The organizers condemned the Israeli government for perpetuating apartheid and violating Palestinian rights. They showed steadfast support for Palestinians resisting these injustices and violations of their fundamental rights.
Susan Naa Ayele Ardayfio-Sekyere, from the Trades Union Congress in Ghana, urged the business community and Ghanaians to continue supporting the people of Palestine. She denounced the acts of the Israeli forces. Kwesi Pratt Jnr, General Secretary of the Socialist Movement of Ghana, criticized the Israeli offensive and called for global intervention, emphasizing that injustice must be resisted everywhere.
This show of solidarity in Ghana contrasts with President Nana Akufo-Addo's recent support for Israel and Ukraine. The Palestinian solidarity march in Ghana aligns with demonstrations worldwide, from London to New York and Paris to Sydney, where people demand an end to the Israeli occupation and support the Palestinian cause. This global movement underscores the need for a future where peace and freedom reign in Palestine.
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