According to the report by 3news, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has admitted that rejecting a proposal from Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin was a miscalculation.
The proposal, which aimed to revise Parliament’s Standing Orders, would have introduced reforms to enhance parliamentary procedures.
However, Afenyo-Markin and his caucus strongly opposed it, particularly a provision that would have allowed the Minority Leader to chair a significant parliamentary committee.
Speaking on the matter, Afenyo-Markin confessed that his opposition was politically motivated rather than based on a thorough evaluation of the proposal’s benefits.
“Looking back, I regret my decision. We were too focused on political dynamics and failed to see the bigger picture,” he said.
At the time, the Minority side resisted the changes, arguing that they would alter the balance of power in Parliament.
However, with Parliament now facing growing concerns over governance and inclusivity, Afenyo-Markin acknowledges that rejecting Bagbin’s proposal may have been a missed opportunity.
“We could have secured a stronger role in parliamentary affairs, but we let politics dictate our choices,” he admitted.
His comments come amid ongoing discussions about parliamentary reforms.
Some analysts believe his admission is a step toward fostering better collaboration between the Majority and Minority sides.
Afenyo-Markin’s reflection highlights the increasing need for bipartisan cooperation to strengthen Parliament’s effectiveness.
Political experts note that this shift in perspective could influence future parliamentary decisions.
“His regret signals a possible change in approach. If both sides embrace reforms with national interest at heart, Parliament will function better,” said a governance analyst.
Source: 3news