Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has issued a sharp demand to Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga to rein in what he described as the National Democratic Congress (NDC) ‘wild dogs’ in Parliament.
According to him, despite the diplomacy of the Majority Leader in handling disagreements with the Minority caucus, certain elements within the NDC caucus are attempting to disrupt the smooth cooperation of the House.
“There are some elements in the NDC in Parliament who are overly aggressive. They believe they must have their pound of flesh and see themselves as the avant-garde of government business,” he stated.
Addressing the media in Parliament on Monday, February 3, regarding the suspension of three New Patriotic Party (NPP) members by Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin, Afenyo-Markin accused some NDC MPs of frequently interfering with the work of the Appointments Committee and creating unnecessary tension, even attempting to intimidate the Committee Chairman.
“For those watching proceedings, anytime the chairman allows smooth deliberations, these individuals come in to disrupt, sometimes even pressuring the chairman to stop me from voting,” he alleged.
The Minority Leader accused the Majority of employing intimidation tactics to suppress dissenting voices, describing instances where Minority members were physically confronted and verbally abused.
According to him, the events of Thursday night were orchestrated to put pressure on the Minority, alleging that individuals affiliated with the NDC were “hired, organized, and brought in” to intimidate opposition MPs.
“The NDC has resorted to firing up its foot soldiers to come and intimidate us. They insult, they bully. We are few, but we are a mighty few. We affirm our conviction, we are determined, and we shall never surrender to their intimidation,” he declared.
Despite these challenges, Afenyo-Markin reaffirmed the Minority’s resolve to stand firm and uphold democratic principles.
He warned that the caucus would not allow itself to be bullied.
“We will not allow ourselves to be cowed. We are going to stand our ground and ensure that the right thing is done—all in the national interest,” he asserted.
He also underscored the Minority’s cooperative stance in facilitating government business and urged the Majority to reciprocate with respect and fairness.
Regarding Speaker Bagbin’s suspension of three NPP MPs following chaotic scenes during last Thursday’s vetting sessions, Afenyo-Markin condemned the decision, stressing that the Speaker had grossly exceeded his jurisdiction and mandate, arrogating powers he does not possess.
He emphasized that, according to parliamentary orders, a committee should be established to investigate such matters before any punitive actions are taken.
