The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Minority Caucus in Ghana’s Parliament says it remains resolute against the growing threats of intimidation by the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) Majority in upholding the national interest.
This comes in response to what the caucus describes as deliberate attempts by the Majority side to suppress its influence.
Addressing a press conference on Monday, February 3, 2024, Minority Leader Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin emphasized the caucus’s determination, stressing that its actions are guided by the interest of the nation.
He clarified that while the Minority will continue to stand its ground, it has no intention of obstructing government business, reaffirming its commitment to parliamentary cooperation.
“We are facing difficult moments, but we will not be intimidated. Aluta continua, victoria acerta. We will stand firm to ensure that the right thing is done in the national interest.
“We have no intention of disrupting government business. On the contrary, we have been the most cooperative in the chamber, and the NDC should acknowledge our support,” he stated.
Afenyo-Markin also raised concerns about the safety of New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs, alleging that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Majority has engaged in intimidation and bullying tactics.
“We have been cooperative, but they continue to intimidate us. If we do not stand firm, they will persist in their actions, and we will not allow that,” he declared.
Citing a recent incident, he noted that the Appointments Committee of which he is the Ranking Member had initially agreed to vet three nominees, but the NDC later insisted on vetting five nominees in one sitting, demonstrating what he described as a strategy of political coercion.
He further alleged that NDC foot soldiers have resorted to physical intimidation against NPP MPs, prompting concerns about security.
“We have brought this to the attention of parliamentary security, and we are taking measures to enhance our safety. The frequency of these incidents is alarming, and we do not feel secure,” Afenyo-Markin stated.
He also defended the actions of NPP MPs during their protest on Thursday night where tables were turned down and microphones destroyed, insisting that they remained law-abiding and did not engage in any destruction of public property.
He urged critics to review video footage of the incident for clarity.
The Minority also disgreed with Speaker Bagbin’s suspension of four Members of the committee for their roles in the chaos that has further dented the image of the Ghanaian legilature.
