Former Secretary of the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS), Anthony Julius has voiced his support for the OccupyJulorBiHouse protesters’ legitimate concerns.
The protesters have been raising concerns about national issues in the country, such as corruption, inequality, and lack of access to basic services.
The OccupyJulorBiHouse demonstration, which gained attention from both local and international media outlets, lasted for three days from September 21st to 23rd, 2023.
Speaking on Campus Exclusive, Anthony Julius also criticized those who dismiss these protests as mere rhetoric, saying that he finds this attitude problematic.
“The protesters have very legitimate concerns….why shouldn’t I protest if dialysis at Korle- bu is now getting to GHC 900?…why shouldn’t I protest if cost of living has increased?…they have very genuine concerns and anyone who goes about saying that I have listened to them and it is the usual rhetorics…I find it problematic.”
He called out those who have dismissed the protests as ‘insensitive’ whilst stressing on everyone’s rights to express their views without fear of retribution.
“Why should you tell me he does not have legitimate concerns? What insensitivity is this? Just because you are closer to power , you have access to something, everyone else can die?”
Anthony Julius, spoke out against what he sees as a growing culture of arrogance among those in power in Ghana. He condemned a statement made by the youth wing of the party, calling it ‘insulting’ towards the youth.
He further called for an end to the attitude of silencing people who wish to speak out on national issues.
Julius believes that it is essential for citizens to be able to express their opinions and concerns in order to ensure that their voices are heard and taken into account when decisions are made.
“We need to stop this [arrogance] in this country and it’s becoming problematic how some people feel that they can simply silence every other person because they have access to resources of state. It is not right.”
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Story by: Henrietta Owusua | univers.ug.edu.gh
