Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has expressed his admiration for Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, the Deputy Minister-Designate for Education, during his vetting before the Appointments Committee of Parliament. Afenyo-Markin, who is also the Member of Parliament for Effutu, stated that Dr. Apaak’s responses and conduct during the vetting process earned him newfound respect.
The moment of commendation arose when Afenyo-Markin referenced a controversial social media post made by Dr. Apaak in September 2024. The post contained strong language criticizing the Akufo-Addo-led New Patriotic Party (NPP) government for allegedly prioritizing the deployment of military personnel to combat grain smuggling while failing to address the illegal mining (galamsey) crisis. The post further asserted that a vote for the NPP’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, was a vote for the escalation of the galamsey menace.
Reading the post aloud, Afenyo-Markin questioned whether Dr. Apaak, in hindsight, believed his choice of words was too harsh given the heated political atmosphere at the time. Responding thoughtfully, Dr. Apaak acknowledged the intensity of political discourse during campaigns but maintained his stance on the issue, emphasizing the need for responsible governance and environmental conservation.
Impressed by Dr. Apaak’s response, Afenyo-Markin stated, “This comes without a doubt you being of the academic stock you’ve earned my respect.” His remark underscored a rare moment of bipartisan recognition, signaling that despite political differences, intellectual engagement and measured discourse are valued in Ghana’s democratic process.
Dr. Apaak, a known advocate for education and social justice, has been a vocal critic of past policies affecting Ghana’s educational sector. His nomination as Deputy Minister for Education aligns with his longstanding advocacy for improved educational infrastructure, teacher welfare, and equitable access to quality education.
As the vetting process continues, Dr. Apaak’s nomination is expected to be approved, allowing him to work alongside the Minister for Education in implementing policies aligned with the Mahama-led administration’s vision for Ghana’s education sector.
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