Afenyo-Markin Takes Responsibility for Vetting Chaos, Appeals for Speaker’s Reconsideration
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has taken full responsibility for the chaotic scenes that unfolded during the vetting of ministerial nominees last week, which led to the suspension of four MPs by Speaker Alban Bagbin.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on February 4, 2025, the Effutu MP admitted that the disruptions had caused public concern and pleaded with the Speaker to reconsider his decision. His remarks signal a shift from the initial stance of the Minority Caucus, which had argued that the Speaker acted outside the Standing Orders of the House.
“Mr. Speaker, I take full responsibility as a leader on my side, on all actions that took place. I will therefore conclude by inviting you, Mr. Speaker, to in the circumstance and with assurance given, consider a recession of the decision you communicated to the House, as well as all consequential matters thereto,” Afenyo-Markin stated.
His appeal was supported by the Majority Leader, who urged a more conciliatory approach to resolving the aftermath of the disturbances.
Suspensions and Investigations
The altercation during the vetting session prompted the Speaker to establish a special committee to investigate the matter. Additionally, four MPs from both sides of the House were suspended for their role in the disruptions.
The suspended MPs are:
- Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor – Majority Chief Whip, MP for South Dayi
- Frank Annoh-Dompreh – Minority Chief Whip, MP for Nsawam-Adoagyiri
- Alhassan Sulemana Tampuli – MP for Gushiegu
- Jerry Ahmed Shaib – MP for Weija-Gbawe
