The Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Bortianor Ngleshie Amanfro, Bright Ofori Ampofo, has come to the defense of Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin regarding the events at the #SaveTheJudiciary protest.

Mr Ampofo explained that Afenyo-Markin was forced to react after a police officer struck him during the demonstration.

A video from the protest showed the Minority Leader in a heated exchange with police officers, which sparked public discussions about his actions.

However, Ampofo maintains that the lawmaker’s conduct was a response to being provoked.

During an appearance on Newsroom on Channel One TV on May 5, Ampofo recounted the incident.

He said, “Just when we were about to pass the barricade, this police officer rushed towards him, crouched, and punched him [Afenyo-Markin] in the chest.”

Ampofo emphasized the severity of the blow, stating that it was so intense that Afenyo-Markin nearly lost consciousness.

“The honourable member almost passed out. We had to escort him to the entrance of Parliament where we gave him some water to help him recover. This caused a delay in presenting the petition for about 30 minutes,” he explained.

He further shared that Afenyo-Markin complained of dizziness after the incident and needed a brief rest before continuing with the protest. Ampofo noted that the Minority Leader was upset, saying that his security was inadequate. “He was even angry with us because he said we didn’t provide him enough security,” Ampofo remarked.

Ampofo then raised questions about the officer’s potential political ties, suggesting the attack may have been politically motivated. “I’m certain he’s an NDC police officer. Why would someone hit a prominent figure like Honourable Afenyo-Markin on the grounds of Parliament, his own turf?” Ampofo questioned.

Concluding his defense, Ampofo stated that Afenyo-Markin’s actions were purely in self-defense. “He was trying to protect himself. He thought another blow might follow, so he was attempting to shield himself, and we quickly got him out of the situation,” he said.