Bernard Ahiafor says Afenyo-Markin will be referred to the Privileges Committee if he fails to apologise to the clerk
Bernard Ahiafor, the Chairman of Parliament’s Appointments Committee, has warned Minority Leader Mr. Alexander Afenyo-Markin that he could be referred to the Privileges Committee if he fails to apologise to the Clerk of the Committee.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin, during a live television broadcast, accused the Clerk, Gifty Jiagge-Gobah, of showing bias in favor of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
He reiterated these allegations in several press conferences and interviews. His remarks reportedly sparked a heated confrontation among Committee members, leading to the suspension of the vetting process.
As a result of the turmoil, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin suspended four MPs and instructed the Clerk to lodge a police complaint.
During an interview on PM Express, Mr. Bernard Ahiafor criticized Mr. Afenyo-Markin’s actions, calling them reckless and unnecessary. He emphasized that no Member of Parliament should conduct themselves in such a way.
Ahiafor suggested that Afenyo-Markin has an opportunity to apologize to the Clerk, which would resolve the issue. However, if he chooses not to, the matter will be referred to the Privileges Committee, where disciplinary measures could be taken.
During an interview on PM Express, Mr. Bernard Ahiafor criticized Mr. Afenyo-Markin’s actions, calling them reckless and unnecessary. He emphasized that no Member of Parliament should conduct themselves in such a way.
Ahiafor suggested that Afenyo-Markin has an opportunity to apologize to the Clerk, which would resolve the issue. However, if he chooses not to, the matter will be referred to the Privileges Committee, where disciplinary measures could be taken.
The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has defended Minority Leader Mr. Afenyo-Markin, criticizing Speaker Alban Bagbin for unfairly suspending three of their MPs. The party argues that the suspension undermines their ability to hold the government accountable.
Despite the ongoing controversy, Parliament’s Appointments Committee is set to resume its vetting of deputy ministerial nominees shortly.
President John Mahama is expected to announce the nominees in the coming days.
