Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has strongly condemned the recent “Rambo-style” arrest of broadcaster Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah, accusing security forces of using unnecessarily aggressive tactics.
Afrifa-Mensah, a well-known media personality, was reportedly detained by state security agents on allegations that have not been fully disclosed to the public.
However, according to Afenyo-Markin, the manner in which the arrest was carried out raised significant concerns about the professionalism and humaneness of the security forces.
Speaking to the media in Parliament on Thursday, March 20, 2025, Afenyo-Markin referred to the arrest as “Rambo-style,” citing the overwhelming and forceful methods used by the security operatives.
He criticized the detention, noting that Afrifa-Mensah was reportedly detained and released on the same night, with no clear explanation provided to the public or to the media about the nature of the charges.
The arrest of Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah has sparked a wider debate on the treatment of journalists and media personnel in Ghana, with many expressing concern about the growing trend of state security interfering with media freedom and free expression.
Afenyo-Markin warned that such tactics could have a chilling effect on freedom of speech, urging for respect for constitutional rights and the protection of journalists in the country.
The Minority Leader also raised concerns about the broader implications of such arrests on public confidence in law enforcement agencies. He warned that the use of forceful methods could contribute to a culture of fear, eroding the trust citizens have in their government and security institutions.
As the incident continues to unfold, many are calling for clarification from the government regarding the reasons for Afrifa-Mensah’s detention and for an official response to the concerns raised by Afenyo-Markin and other public figures.
