Ghanaian journalist Bridget Otoo has expressed frustration over what she considers misplaced priorities in determining who should participate in protests.

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In a series of sharp remarks, she challenged the notion that only individuals with specific or "genuine" interests are justified in joining public demonstrations, dismissing such ideas as "nonsense."

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"So now we need to do facial recognition of those who are genuine? Those who don’t have interest before joining a protest? How does your brain make room for such nonsense? When the country works does it work for only those with selfish interests?" Otoo asked.

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The journalist emphasized that national policies affect everyone, regardless of political affiliations or individual motivations.

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When you go and buy petrol, will they ask for your party card? When light and water bills are down does it benefit only those with interest? When prices of goods are down does it benefit those with “selfish interest “? she questioned.

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Bridget Otoo pointed to real-life concerns like rising prices and environmental pollution, arguing that these problems affect the entire population, not just select groups.

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"Does the polluted river affect only those with selfish interest? When your food is poisoned, is it only those with selfish interest who would be affected?," she added.

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Her critique came on the heels of the Ghana Police Service's arrest of 42 demonstrators from the Democracy Hub protest on Sunday, September 22, 2024.

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The protesters, who had unlawfully assembled, were accused of assaulting police officers, obstructing traffic, damaging property, and disturbing public peace.

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In an official statement, the police confirmed that all the suspects, including some of the group's leaders, are in custody and will face legal action. Law enforcement is also seeking Oliver Vormawor, one of the protest leaders, to bring him to justice.

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The police service thanked the public for their cooperation and assured citizens of their commitment to maintaining law, order, and peace across the country.

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So now we need to do facial recognition of those who are genuine?Those who don’t have interest before joining a protest?How does your brain make room for such nonsense?When the country works does it work for only those with selfish interests? When you go and buy petrol, will…— Bee (@Bridget_Otoo) September 23, 2024

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