Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has urged Members of Parliament (MPs) to prioritize national interest over partisan divisions, warning that an overly political approach to governance could allow inefficiencies to persist unchecked.
Ghana, he said, needs a Parliament that will discuss real issues and offer solutions.
He warned that allowing partisanship to overly take over the debate in the House will only create avenues for the real culprits who hurt our nation to go scot-free and cited recent issues at the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) as an example of inefficiencies that need bipartisan scrutiny.
In heartfelt concluding remarks on Saturday, March 29, when Parliament adjourned sine die, the Minority leader expressed gratitude for the collective efforts of the House while urging greater unity and cooperation moving forward.
He extended appreciation to Speaker of Parliament and his deputies for their stewardship, noting that despite differences, the House had worked for the good of Ghana.
“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 said.
He also praised his fellow parliamentarians, particularly those in leadership, for their dedication to duty, acknowledging the occasional heated debates but emphasizing that the nation’s welfare remained paramount.
The Minority Leader reflected on the unique challenges faced by first-time MPs, especially in the wake of the dissolution of the eighth Parliament and underscored the importance of the orientation and induction program, which helps new MPs understand parliamentary procedures and the nuances of governance.
“This meeting has been most eventful, especially for our first-timers who may not have expected Parliament to be the way it has been,” he noted.
Afenyo-Markin also addressed the much-discussed 24-hour economy policy, expressing concern over the Finance Minister’s decision to defer its implementation.
“Though His Excellency assured us that his finance minister in his budget would outline the famous policy of 24-hour economy, Dr. Ato Forson, in his statement, deferred this all-important policy,” he pointed out.
He suggested that the delay could impact public confidence, given the administration’s earlier commitment to rolling out the initiative in 2025.
The Minority Leader also expressed concerns regarding the conduct of some members of the House, particularly during debates and cited 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 springs surprises on us. We believe that proper politics can best be done where there is goodwill, good faith, and understanding,” he remarked.
Afenyo-Markin referenced an incident regarding the Gold Board Bill, where an unexpected change in proceedings led to tensions on the floor of Parliament.
“The situation was such that a senior member of this House, Hon Kwesi Bedzrah, moved all the way to switch off the mic of the Minority Whip,” he revealed and called for more transparent and collaborative decision-making.
Afenyo-Markin encouraged his colleagues to use the parliamentary break to reconnect with their families and prioritize their health.
He stressed that if MPs spend all their time doing politics, they will lose their families and urged them to spend some time with them. He also urged MPs to pay attention to their well-being, noting that health challenges can arise unexpectedly.
“Take time to check on your health and be able to meet those health challenges ahead of time so that you can recover,” he cautioned.
Despite the challenges, Afenyo-Markin expressed optimism about future engagements in Parliament, commending the Majority Leader 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—save that when his mischief energies are activated, he makes life unbearable for me,” he said with a touch of humor.