The Minority Leader of Ghana’s Parliament, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, has publicly expressed regret over his previous rejection of a proposal from the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Bagbin, concerning the leadership of the Appointments Committee. The proposal, which was introduced during discussions on new Standing Orders, suggested that the Minority Leader should chair the Appointments Committee. Initially, this idea was met with opposition from Afenyo-Markin’s caucus, especially when the New Patriotic Party (NPP) held the majority in Parliament.
In a speech on the floor of Parliament on March 4, 2025, Afenyo-Markin, who represents the Effutu constituency, admitted that his initial rejection of the proposal was a mistake. Reflecting on his decision, he explained that it was influenced by the political dynamics at the time, with the NPP in the majority and concerned that the proposal might undermine their influence.
“Mr. Speaker, I have a confession to make, and I’m not worried about how the media will portray it. We all make mistakes, and when we realize them, we must take responsibility,” Afenyo-Markin stated. He acknowledged that while the proposal had been rejected, it had significant merit in promoting transparency and strengthening Ghana’s democratic institutions.
At the time, the NPP, as the Majority, feared that having the Minority Leader chair the Appointments Committee could diminish their influence. However, Afenyo-Markin now views the proposal as a progressive approach that could have positively impacted parliamentary processes.
“The proposal was rejected when we were in the Majority, and I thought then that having the Minority Leader chair the committee would weaken our position. Today, I can admit that the Speaker was thinking beyond those immediate concerns,” he said.
While he recognized that the rejection was influenced by short-term political considerations, Afenyo-Markin emphasized the long-term benefits it could have had for Ghana’s democracy. He stressed the importance of reflecting on past decisions and admitting when one is wrong.
Additionally, Afenyo-Markin took the opportunity to advise the current Majority caucus of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). He cautioned them not to become overly confident in their newfound power and reminded them that the Majority position comes with the responsibility to represent and protect the interests of all members of Parliament.
“The joy of being in the Majority should not blind the leadership of this House to the fact that all sides must be heard and protected,” he concluded.
Afenyo-Markin’s comments came amid an ongoing debate within Parliament, ignited by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga’s proposal for a debate quota that favored the Majority party. This exchange highlighted the ongoing balance between majority and minority interests and the continuous efforts to strengthen Ghana’s democratic processes.
SOURCE
