Afenyo-Markin urges MPs to prioritize national interest, calls for unity and accountability
Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has called on Members of Parliament (MPs) to prioritize national interest over partisan divisions, warning that an excessively political approach to governance could allow inefficiencies to persist unchecked.
He stressed that Ghana requires a Parliament that focuses on addressing real issues and offering solutions. He cautioned that allowing partisanship to dominate discussions would only provide an opportunity for those responsible for harming the nation to escape accountability, citing recent challenges at the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) as a prime example of inefficiencies that require bipartisan oversight.
In his heartfelt remarks on Saturday, March 29, as Parliament adjourned sine die, the minority leader expressed gratitude for the collective efforts of the House, urging greater unity and cooperation in the future.
He also extended his appreciation to the Speaker of Parliament and his deputies for their leadership, noting that despite differences, the House had worked for the good of the nation.
“We may disagree, but let me say, I appreciate your leadership, the support you give to members, to your deputies, the first and second deputy speakers,” he stated.
Afenyo-Markin commended his fellow parliamentarians, particularly those in leadership, for their commitment to duty, acknowledging the occasional heated debates but emphasizing that the nation’s welfare remained the top priority.
Reflecting on the unique challenges faced by first-time MPs, especially following the dissolution of the eighth Parliament, he emphasized the importance of the orientation and induction program, which helps new MPs navigate parliamentary procedures and governance complexities.
“This meeting has been most eventful, especially for our first-timers who may not have expected Parliament to be what it has been,” he remarked.
Afenyo-Markin also addressed the much-debated 24-hour economy policy, expressing concern over the Finance Minister’s decision to postpone its implementation.
“Although His Excellency assured us that his finance minister would outline the 24-hour economy policy in his budget, Dr. Ato Forson has deferred this important initiative,” he pointed out, suggesting that the delay could undermine public confidence given the administration’s earlier commitment to rolling it out in 2025.
The Minority Leader raised concerns about the conduct of some House members, particularly during debates, highlighting incidents of hostility and surprise tactics used by the Majority side, which he believes undermine parliamentary cohesion.
“Our friends on the majority side often resolve misunderstandings in a way that surprises us. We believe that proper politics can best be conducted with goodwill, good faith, and understanding,” he said.
Afenyo-Markin referred to an incident during the Gold Board Bill proceedings, where an unexpected change in the order of events led to tensions in the House. He recounted how Hon. Kwesi Bedzrah, a senior member, had moved to switch off the Minority Whip’s microphone, calling for more transparent and collaborative decision-making.
He also encouraged MPs to use the parliamentary break to reconnect with their families and focus on their health. He warned that if MPs spend all their time on politics, they risk losing connection with their families and neglecting their well-being.
“Take time to check on your health and address any challenges ahead of time so that you can recover,” he cautioned.
Despite the challenges, Afenyo-Markin expressed optimism about future engagements in Parliament, thanking the Majority Leader for his professionalism, even while acknowledging their occasional political clashes.
“I thank my respected senior and the Majority Leader of this House for being a true gentleman in his dealings—except when his mischief energies are activated, which make life unbearable for me,” he added with a touch of humor.
