Minority Leader Faces Police Inquiry After Protest Incident
The Ghana Police Service invited Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin to assist in an investigation following an alleged assault on a police officer during the #SaveTheJudiciaryDemo. The incident, captured in a viral video, reportedly shows Afenyo-Markin striking an officer as protesters were blocked from entering Parliament House to present a petition. The demonstration, held a day earlier, aimed to address concerns over judicial independence in Ghana.
The #SaveTheJudiciaryDemo, led by the New Patriotic Party (NPP), saw a coalition of opposition groups rally against perceived threats to the judiciary. Protesters, including Afenyo-Markin, criticized the government, alleging a “ruthless cabal” was undermining the 1992 Constitution to cling to power. The suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo by President John Mahama, pending investigations into her conduct, fueled the protests, with the NPP calling it politically motivated.
Tensions flared during the event, with heavy security presence and reported clashes between protesters and police. Afenyo-Markin later claimed he was struck first by a constable, leaving him dazed, prompting his reaction. The police have also written to Speaker Alban Bagbin to secure Afenyo-Markin’s release for the probe, while the officer involved is assisting with inquiries.
Afenyo-Markin Seeks Justice After Violent Clash at Demonstration
On May 5, 2025, the Minority Leader and MP for Effutu, formally petitioned the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, to investigate an alleged assault by a uniformed police officer during the “Save the Judiciary” demonstration at Parliament House. The protest was a response to the controversial suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, which many view as an attack on judicial independence.
RE: INCIDENT AT PARLIAMENT HOUSE FOLLOWING THE “SAVE THE JUDICIARY” DEMONSTRATION pic.twitter.com/0ecHNHAPJI
— Osahen Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin (@AfenyoMarkin) May 5, 2025
Afenyo-Markin’s press release, shared via X, details the incident, describing an unprovoked act of violence against him by police and NPP officers. He recounts the demonstration’s broader context, noting that earlier that day, petitions were submitted to Jubilee House, the Supreme Court, and Parliament, demanding protection for the judiciary. The Minority Leader condemned the aggression, calling it a direct threat to Ghana’s democratic principles.
The demonstration reflects deeper frustrations in Ghana, as voiced by figures like Hon. Stephen Amoah, who decried the failure of institutions like the courts and police. Petitions were submitted to the Judicial Secretary and the Presidency, with the Deputy Chief of Staff receiving one on behalf of the President. The incident has sparked a broader debate on judicial integrity and governance in the country.