Tensions in Parliament have escalated following the Speaker’s decision to refer Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin to the Privileges Committee a move the Deputy Minority Leader, Patricia Appiagyei, says threatens unity within the House and undermines Ghana’s international image.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, November 28, Ms. Appiagyei accused the Speaker of using parliamentary procedures to target the Minority Caucus, describing the referral as an attempt to “gag” opposition leadership at a time when debates in the chamber have grown increasingly polarized.
Background to the Dispute
The Speaker referred Afenyo-Markin to the Privileges Committee earlier this week over concerns related to Ghana’s representation in the ECOWAS Parliament an issue that has sparked heated exchanges between the Speaker and sections of the Minority.
Ms. Appiagyei, who was previously listed as part of Ghana’s delegation, noted that she had voluntarily withdrawn from the assignment. She expressed surprise that her withdrawal had now become grounds for disciplinary action against the Minority Leader.
Appiagyei Criticises Speaker’s Action
According to her, the referral is not only unwarranted but risks damaging Ghana’s reputation within regional parliamentary bodies.
“This is a serious embarrassment to Ghana’s international standing,” she said, arguing that disagreements over delegation composition should not trigger punitive measures.
She characterized the Speaker’s move as “pure retaliation and vindictiveness,” insisting that the Minority will not be intimidated by what she believes is an attempt to sow discord within its ranks.
The development adds to ongoing frictions between the Speaker and the Minority Caucus, who have accused him in recent weeks of inconsistent rulings and unfair treatment.
The Majority, meanwhile, has dismissed those claims, insisting the Speaker is simply enforcing parliamentary procedure.
The Privileges Committee is expected to schedule a date to hear the matter in the coming days.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
