Press Release: Promoting Accountability, Transparency, and Good Governance
*Date: January 31, 2025*
CONDEMNATION OF THE DISRUPTIVE AND DISHONORABLE CONDUCT OF THE MINORITY IN PARLIAMENT DURING THE VETTING PROCESS*
The Alliance for Civic Action (ACA) has observed with grave concern the recent conduct of the Minority Caucus in Parliament, particularly during the ongoing vetting of ministerial nominees. The actions of some members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Minority, led by Hon. Afenyo Markins, have been nothing short of disgraceful, unbecoming of honorable members of the legislature, and a blatant disregard for the principles of democracy, accountability, and national progress.
We condemns in no uncertain terms the gross indiscipline, unparliamentary behavior, and deliberate attempts to derail the vetting process. The actions of the Minority, including unnecessary delays, baseless accusations, and a clear lack of respect for the rules of Parliament, are a stark reminder of the need for sanity and decorum in our legislative house.
It is deeply troubling that after the Ghanaian people overwhelmingly rejected the NPP in the just-ended elections, some members of the party have chosen to exemplify the very traits that led to their defeat: arrogance, incompetence, and a blatant disregard for the welfare of the nation. The Minority’s actions are not only a disservice to their constituents but also a betrayal of the trust Ghanaians have placed in Parliament as an institution of accountability and progress.
Alliance For Civic Action is particularly appalled by the weak and ineffective leadership of Hon. Afenyo Markins, whose inability to control his caucus and provide constructive opposition has further exposed the lack of direction within the Minority. Leadership is not about grandstanding or engaging in petty politics; it is about serving the people with integrity and purpose. Unfortunately, Hon. Markins has failed woefully in this regard.
We call on the Majority Caucus, led by Mahama Ayariga of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), to remain vigilant and resolute in the face of these provocations. The Majority must not, for a moment, see the Minority as allies or partners in the governance process. The actions of the Minority have shown that they are more interested in playing politics than in contributing to the development of our nation.
ACA urges the new government to closely monitor the actions of the Minority and take appropriate steps to ensure that their disruptive behavior does not undermine the work of Parliament. We also call on the Speaker of Parliament to enforce the rules of the House without fear or favor, ensuring that all members, regardless of their political affiliation, conduct themselves in a manner befitting the honor of Parliament.
Finally, we remind all Members of Parliament that they are first and foremost servants of the people. The Ghanaian people deserve a Parliament that works in their interest, not one that is bogged down by petty politics and personal agendas. The ACA will continue to monitor the conduct of Parliament and hold all members accountable for their actions.
Enough is enough! Let sanity prevail in Parliament, and let the work of the people begin.
Signed, Francis Kwesi Badu-Mello
President:
Alliance for Civic Action (ACA)
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