The Minority Leader in Ghana’s Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has formally petitioned the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to launch an investigation into an alleged assault by a police officer during the “Save the Judiciary” demonstration.

According to the petition, the officer in question, identified as Constable Forson, is described as “a tall, fair, and heavily built officer” who had been assigned to provide security at the entrance of Parliament House during the protest.

Mr Afenyo-Markin claims that Constable Forson physically assaulted him at the parliamentary entrance, an incident he believes warrants immediate disciplinary action.

The alleged assault has sparked concern and confusion, particularly given the high-profile nature of the event and the presence of senior officials. In his petition, Afenyo-Markin wrote: “Constable Forson assaulted me at the entrance of Parliament House during the demonstration.”

To counter what he describes as “misleading narratives circulating in the public domain,” Afenyo-Markin has also issued a public statement, outlining his version of the events. He notes in his petition, “To address this incident and to correct misleading narratives… I have issued a public statement detailing the events as they occurred.”

This statement, which was attached to the petition, is expected to provide a fuller account and serve as a basis for any investigation or administrative action to follow.

The aim, according to the petition, is to ensure transparency and accountability in the handling of the matter.

Concluding the letter, the Minority Leader expressed his confidence in the IGP’s office to treat the matter with the seriousness it deserves.

“Counting on your usual cooperation,” Afenyo-Markin wrote, signalling his expectation for prompt and fair action.