Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has accused a uniformed police officer of launching an unprovoked attack against him during the “Save the Judiciary” demonstration.
The confrontation, which was captured on video and rapidly circulated on social media, has sparked intense debate about police conduct and the broader struggle for judicial independence in Ghana.
In a detailed statement, Afenyo-Markin recounted that as he approached the barricade to present a petition, Constable Forson struck him forcefully on the left side of his chest near his heart.
The impact he claimed “left him dazed, short of breath, and leaning against a wall to avoid collapsing”.
He noted that was assisted by parliamentary staff and CID officers who helped him stabilize before continuing with the petition presentation.
Afenyo-Markin described the assault as deliberate and reckless, noting that the officer was openly reprimanded by his superiors at the scene but defiantly stated “he did not care who Afenyo-Markin was and would carry out his actions regardless”.
The officer reportedly disappeared mysteriously after the incident, prompting concerns about attempts to shield him from accountability.
Rejecting claims that he was the aggressor, Afenyo-Markin insisted his reaction was a protest against the officer’s conduct.
He criticized attempts by some political actors, particularly within the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), to politicize and distort the incident to divert attention from the demonstration’s constitutional objectives, which focused on defending the judiciary’s independence.
He remarked “We must not be distracted from the purpose of the demonstration. We marched to defend the Constitution and the independence of the judiciary principles that must be protected at all costs”.
Following the event, the Ghana Police Service has initiated a formal investigation.
They have reviewed multiple video recordings and requested the Speaker of Parliament release Afenyo-Markin to assist with inquiries. The police officer involved has also been asked to cooperate with the investigation.
The “Save the Judiciary” protest was led by opposition parties, including the New Patriotic Party (NPP), responding to concerns over the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
While largely peaceful, tensions escalated briefly during the march, culminating in the altercation involving Afenyo-Markin and the police officer.
Afenyo-Markin has formally petitioned the Inspector-General of Police demanding a full and transparent investigation into the incident, emphasizing the importance of upholding constitutional principles and the rule of law.
Source: www.kumasimail.com /Kwadwo Owusu
