Majority leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has launched a scathing critique of the Minority, accusing them of obstructionist tactics that have stalled the approval of a mini-budget and other critical national initiatives.
He condemned the Minority for what he described as “reckless brinkmanship” that has delayed the approval of expenditure in advance of appropriation for the first quarter of 2025.
Addressing the Parliamentary press on Friday, December 20, 2024, Afenyo-Markin stated that it was disingenuous for the Minority to shift blame to the Government for the delays of the mini-budget, asserting that the delays were a direct result of the Minority’s reckless behaviour and refusal to cooperate on critical legislative matters.
The Majority leader singled out the Minority’s refusal to facilitate the approval of Supreme Court nominees, Professor Richard Frimpong Oppong and Justice Sophia Rosetta Oduokuwa Bernasko Essah.
“These appointments are critical to the effective functioning of the judiciary. This reckless action undermines the rule of law and causes unnecessary delays in the delivery of justice for Ghanaians who depend on the courts for the protection of their rights and resolution of disputes,” he emphasized.
The Majority leader also recounted the Minority’s “unlawful and unprecedented takeover” of the Majority benches in November, labeling it as a flagrant violation of parliamentary decorum.
“Such conduct reflects a troubling disregard for the trust and responsibility entrusted to them by the Ghanaian people,” he stated.
Afenyo-Markin accused the Minority of stalling key initiatives such as the Free Senior High School (SHS) Bill and a $250 million World Bank facility aimed at stabilizing the financial sector.
He also criticized the Minority for undermining the One District, One Factory (1D1F) initiative by blocking concessions and tax exemptions critical to its success.
“These actions jeopardize efforts to create jobs and alleviate the burdens faced by struggling Ghanaian families,” he stated.
The Majority Caucus urged the Minority to abandon what it described as a “lawless and destructive approach” and to work collaboratively for the nation’s benefit.
“As a responsible Majority, we remain steadfast in our commitment to the people of Ghana. We urge the Minority to work with us in the collective interest of the nation,” Afenyo-Markin said.
He vowed that the Majority would continue to push for progress, emphasizing the importance of jobs, economic recovery, and a strong judiciary.
The Ghanaian people, he said, deserve better than the reckless conduct they have witnessed from the Minority in recent months.
