Security, Intelligence, and Conflict Analyst Anthony Acquaye has described the actions of the Minority during the recent “Save the Judiciary” demonstration as bordering on lawlessness, especially in light of their decision to seek legal protection after the incident.
Speaking on the Simpieso political talk show on Ahotor FM, hosted by Emmanuel Amartey, also known as Alaska De Don, Acquaye said video evidence from the protest shows law enforcement officers carrying out their duties in line with public order and crowd control protocols.
According to Acquaye, while political tensions can run high during demonstrations, no political figure is above the law. “Let’s put politics aside and address the behavior of any public official who engages in misconduct during a demonstration,” he said.
He further explained that police often establish barricades to manage crowds, particularly in high-security zones. Acquaye strongly condemned the actions of Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who was captured in footage allegedly making physical contact with an officer. “Afenyo-Markin had no right to place his hands on the officer. This is a serious offense and must be addressed by the full rigour of the law,” Acquaye asserted.
He added that, given Afenyo-Markin’s high-ranking position as Minority Leader in Parliament, his actions risk undermining state authority and could incite further unrest if not addressed properly. Acquaye called for a thorough investigation and potential prosecution, noting that accountability at the leadership level is necessary to prevent political chaos.
Meanwhile, in a separate development, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has formally petitioned the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to investigate an alleged assault on him by a police officer during the same protest.
In his petition, Afenyo-Markin identified the officer as Constable Forson, describing him as “a tall, fair, and heavily built officer” assigned to provide security at the entrance of Parliament House. The Minority Leader claims that Constable Forson physically assaulted him at the entrance during the demonstration.
The incident has caused concern due to its occurrence in a highly sensitive area involving senior government officials. In his petition, Afenyo-Markin stated: “Constable Forson assaulted me at the entrance of Parliament House during the demonstration.”
To clarify what he terms as “misleading narratives circulating in the public domain,” the Minority Leader has also released a public statement providing his account of the events. The statement, attached to his petition, aims to serve as a comprehensive reference for any internal investigation or disciplinary action.
“The aim is to ensure transparency and accountability in the handling of the matter,” the petition reads.
Afenyo-Markin concluded his letter by expressing his confidence in the IGP’s office to conduct a fair and impartial investigation: “Counting on your usual cooperation,” he wrote, signaling his expectation for prompt action.
