Ghana: Protest over US-Ghana military agreement in Tamale April 21 /update 2

Event

Supporters of the opposition coalition Ghana First Patriotic Front will stage a protest in Tamale on Saturday, April 21, in response to the Defense Cooperation Agreement reached between the US and Ghana in March. The demonstration is expected to begin at 06:00 (local time) at Jubilee Park. Increased security surrounding this any related demonstrations is to be expected.

Context

Large protests over the defense agreement previously took place in Accra on March 28, in Kumasi on April 17, and in Tamale on April 18. 

The defense agreement ratified by the Ghanaian parliament will allow the US to deploy troops in the country, give US forces access to Ghanaian runways and other military facilities, import military equipment tax-free, and give the US access to Ghanaian radio stations. The deal does not include plans for a new military base in Ghana. In exchange, the US is to provide Ghana with USD 20 million in military equipment and training. Opponents of the deal fear that the agreement could result in a weakening of Ghana’s security and sovereignty.

Advice

Individuals in Ghana, particularly in Accra and Tamale, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.