NPP Minority In Ghana’s Parliament is a ‘waste ‘ – ACA

The Minority In Ghana’s Parliament is a ‘waste ‘
Alliance for Civic Action (ACA)

Accra, Ghana – February 27, 2025

The Alliance for Civic Action (ACA), a civil society organization committed to promoting transparent governance, accountability, and the principles of good governance and peace, expresses profound concern over the recent conduct of the Minority Leader, Hon. Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, during the parliamentary vetting process.

On February 26, 2025, during the vetting of Deputy Attorney General and Justice Minister-designate, Justice Srem-Sai, an incident occurred that has raised serious questions about the decorum and leadership within our parliamentary proceedings. Hon. Afenyo-Markin posed a question to the nominee, requesting him to demonstrate a cultural dance from his heritage, stating, “We are here to learn about our country. It is also about our culture.”

The Chairman of the Appointments Committee, Hon. Bernard Ahiafor, overruled this question, deeming it inappropriate for the setting, and stated, “Honourable nominee, the question is overruled. You are not going to answer that question.”

In response, Hon. Afenyo-Markin accused the Chairman of being “whimsical and capricious” in his handling of the proceedings. When the Chairman demanded a withdrawal of these remarks, Hon. Afenyo-Markin refused, further stating, “Chairman, I will not withdraw. You rudely overruled me.”

Such conduct not only undermines the integrity of our parliamentary processes but also reflects a troubling lack of leadership and decorum expected of someone in his esteemed position. The ACA is particularly alarmed by the Minority Leader’s apparent impatience and his propensity to resort to confrontational tactics, which have led to unnecessary tensions and disruptions within the legislative body.

The recent boycott by the minority during the vetting committee sessions is a glaring manifestation of intolerance and a blatant disregard for parliamentary principles and the rule of law. Hon. Afenyo-Markin’s refusal to retract unacceptable remarks directed at the committee’s chairperson further exemplifies a concerning level of arrogance and disrespect.

In light of these developments, the ACA calls upon all Ghanaians to recognize the gravity of this situation. It is imperative to address these issues promptly to prevent potential chaos and to preserve the sanctity of our parliamentary democracy.

We are in an era that demands collaborative teamwork, mutual respect, and a unified commitment to nation-building. The time for individualistic displays of authority has passed. It is essential for our leaders, especially those within the minority caucus led by Hon. Afenyo-Markin, to adopt a more constructive and cooperative approach. The current trajectory of incessant disruptions and confrontations is detrimental to our democratic fabric.

The ACA urges the minority leadership to reflect on their actions and to realign their strategies in a manner that fosters productive discourse and upholds the dignity of our parliamentary institution. Our democracy thrives on healthy debates and collaborative efforts, not on discord and disrespect.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Francis Kwesi Badu-Mello

President, Alliance For Civic Action

Alliance for Civic Action (ACA)

0244819302