Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin
Minority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin has stated that the NPP Caucus on the Appointments Committee will not devote more than five minutes to vetting a nominee perceived as arrogant.
This remark follows accusations by the Minority Caucus in Parliament that the Majority has been disregarding parliamentary procedures during the ministerial vetting process.
Afenyo-Markin expressed frustration over what he described as unfair behavior by the Majority, despite the Minority’s willingness to cooperate with the NDC-led government.
He condemned disruptions to the vetting process, describing them as deliberate and careless tactics by the Majority.
Referring to the Minister of Health-designate, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, he noted, “Why is it that when it comes to Afenyo-Markin, the NDC wants to frustrate the process? In any event, it is not every nominee I question. This morning, for the Ministry of Health nominee, we spent only 30 minutes.”
Afenyo-Markin stressed the importance of humility and preparedness for nominees, adding that such qualities positively influence the vetting process.
“Nominees need to understand that they are coming into public office. Their conduct, their humility, and their attitude will make the process smoother. If a nominee is arrogant, overly partisan, or disrespectful, you don’t expect us to spend five minutes.”
He emphasised that nominees who come well-prepared and knowledgeable about their roles will receive mutual respect from the committee.
However, he warned that disrespectful behavior or insults directed at individuals such as the Chief Justice or the former President would not be tolerated.
“Those who come prepared, know their brief, and show respect will receive the same in return. But those who insult and abuse key figures like the Chief Justice or the former President cannot expect us to clap for them and have tea with them. We will not tolerate it.”
Afenyo-Markin concluded by cautioning the committee chair to avoid succumbing to pressure from extremists pushing him to assert unnecessary authority.
“The chair of the committee must know that we respect him. He should not yield to those extremists trying to make him act otherwise,” he said.
Watch the video below:
VKB/MA
Meanwhile, watch as chaos erupts at Parliament over vetting of Okudzeto Ablakwa and Mintah Akandoh