Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has called on Members of Parliament (MPs) to put Ghana’s national interest first, cautioning that excessive politics could allow inefficiencies to persist unchecked.
He emphasized the need for Parliament to focus on real issues that affect the nation rather than being consumed by political rivalry.
“Ghana needs a Parliament that will discuss real issues and offer solutions,” he asserted.
Speaking on Saturday, March 29, as Parliament adjourned sine die, Afenyo-Markin reflected on the House’s collective efforts and urged greater unity and cooperation in future deliberations.
Excessive politics
The Minority Leader pointed to recent issues at the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) as an example of inefficiencies that require thorough bipartisan scrutiny. He warned that allowing political divisions to dominate debates could let real culprits evade accountability.
“If we let partisanship take over, we only create avenues for those who hurt our nation to go scot-free,” he cautioned.
Afenyo-Markin expressed deep appreciation for the Speaker of Parliament and his deputies, recognizing their leadership in steering the affairs of the House.
“We may disagree, but let me say, I appreciate your leadership, the support you give to members, and the guidance provided by your deputies,” he noted.
He also praised his fellow MPs, particularly those in leadership positions, for their dedication and hard work despite the heated nature of parliamentary debates.
Acknowledging the struggles of new MPs, he stressed the importance of orientation programs to help them navigate the complexities of governance.
This meeting, he said, has been most eventful, especially for the first-timers who may not have expected Parliament to be the way it has been.
Concern over 24-Hour Economy delay
The Minority leader expressed disappointment over the government’s decision to defer the much-anticipated 24-hour economy policy.
According to him, the President assured Parliament and the nation that his Finance Minister would outline the famous policy of a 24-hour economy. However, Dr. Ato Forson, in his budget statement, deferred this all-important policy.
He suggested that the delay could shake public confidence, given the government’s earlier commitment to rolling it out in 2025.
Calls for more transparency
The Minority Leader voiced concerns about the conduct of some MPs during debates, citing incidents where the Majority side used surprise tactics that undermined parliamentary cohesion.
He said, “Our friends on the Majority side often resolve misunderstandings in a way that springs surprises on us. We believe that proper politics can best be done where there is goodwill, good faith, and understanding.”
He referenced a specific incident involving the Gold Board Bill, where unexpected changes in proceedings led to tensions.
The situation, he said, was such that a senior member of this House, Hon. Kwesi Bedzrah, moved all the way to switch off the mic of the Minority Whip, urging for a more collaborative approach to decision-making.
MPs urged to prioritize family and health
As Parliament takes a break, Afenyo-Markin encouraged his colleagues to use the time to reconnect with their families and pay attention to their health.
“If you spend all your time doing politics, you will lose your family. Take time to check on your health and be able to meet those health challenges ahead of time so that you can recover,” he advised.
Despite the challenges, Afenyo-Markin expressed optimism about Parliament’s future engagements, commending the Majority Leader while acknowledging their occasional political clashes.
By Osumanu Al-Hassan/thenewsbulletin24.com