The Alliance for Accountable Governance (AFAG) has set Thursday, July 2, 2009 as date for its first massive demonstration against government. The group is incensed with what they describe as worsening economic plight of workers caused by government’s insensitive policies. AFAG gave a two week ultimatum for government to increase public sector wages and to explain the 30 per cent price hike in petroleum products as well as increases in Academic facility user fees for tertiary students failure which it will hit the streets. Arnold Boateng spokesperson of the group told Citi News on Monday they are disappointed with government’s continued silence on the issues raised and have no choice than to register their protest. He said the police has been duly notified in accordance with the Public Order Act. He is expecting close to 20,000 protesters on the day and called on all Ghanaians to take part in a march aimed at drawing the attention of government to the economic hardships of the populace. Asked if the group is not being impatient with government, Mr. Boateng noted the utterances of government officials have contributed to lowering investor confidence in the country. He argued government’s policy to implement full cost recovery in tertiary education and utility pricing in the country were a far cry from a government which promised to put money into pockets of citizens. He also cited harassment of ex-government officials which he says were inimical to the development of democracy in Ghana. Story by Nathan Gadugah/Myjoyonline.com