Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, the MP stressed his close relationship with current Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and questioned why anyone would link him to a takeover plot.

“There is nobody in Ghana’s Parliament who knows Afenyo-Markin more than I do. We’ve been friends for a long time and are still very close. We exchange ideas,” he said.

He recounted how he backed Afenyo-Markin during attempts by some individuals to unseat him in the 9th Parliament.

“I was one of the people who stood firmly by him when some people wanted to outstage him in this 9th Parliament. We are building young people in the party, so there was no need to change leadership. At that time, he had not even served a year as Majority Leader, and then we lost the election,” he said.

Mr. Boamah emphasised that his priority is helping the New Patriotic Party (NPP) regain power, not pursuing leadership roles in Parliament.

“I am not interested in the Minority Leader position. We must be very strategic. What we discuss internally as a party should not be discussed outside. It’s not good for cohesion,” he cautioned.

He added that maintaining unity within the caucus and its committees is a shared responsibility, especially as the party focuses on rebuilding ahead of the next election.

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Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express on October 27, he said his leadership will be defined by substance, not numbers.

“I’m not in any way worried about the numbers. Like I indicated in my opening remarks in Parliament, it’s about substance,” he said.

Responding to suggestions that power in Parliament lies in numbers, Mr Afenyo-Markin argued that influence is earned through strategy and conviction.

“Before the final destination, you need to demonstrate your weight. And for me, that is what enriches democracy,” he said.

He drew inspiration from how the National Democratic Congress (NDC), led in Parliament by Alban Bagbin in opposition, recovered from its first major defeat in 2000.

“The situation has happened before to the NDC. I draw a lot of inspiration from the Bagbin era and NDC opposition,”

Mr Afenyo-Markin recalled how the NDC, after its PNDC roots, struggled for relevance when it lost power.

“Kufuor enjoyed huge goodwill. In 2001, nobody wanted to hear NDC. In fact, it was difficult for them to even appear on radio programmes. But they put themselves together in the midst of the confusion,” he recounted.

According to him, the Bagbin-led Minority’s hard work and determination eventually paid off.

“By 2004, they had momentum on their side. Then by 2008, they surprised the nation,” he said.

He stressed the importance of learning from both successes and failures.

“As a politician, you should not be shy of your weakness. You come into government, you have your success story, you have your failings,” he noted.

Reflecting on the government’s record, Mr Afenyo-Markin admitted challenges in tackling illegal mining, stabilising the economy, and managing public discontent.

“We were faced with huge challenges. We tried, but we were not too successful. Typical example, galamsey,” he said.

He said tough economic measures taken during the post-COVID period alienated key sections of the party’s base.

“We lost the middle class, the businessmen. There were haircuts, pensioners, educated people who ordinarily would vote NPP got disappointed,” he said.

Despite this, he maintained that the government achieved significant milestones in education and industrialisation.

“We introduced Free SHS, which benefited many families. We brought in 1D1F, a major boost for the private sector. It attracted a lot of companies that saw Ghana as a great destination for business,” he said.

Mr Afenyo-Markin concluded that although expectations were high and the party lost ground, the experience has strengthened his resolve.

“Eventually, all these gains, because of our inability to meet the higher expectations of the Ghanaian people, we lost out,” he said.

Source: Abubakar Ibrahim

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Delivering his welcome address at the resumption of Parliament for the third meeting of the Second Session of the Ninth Parliament, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin said the situation has deteriorated under the Mahama-led administration, contrary to the government’s public claims.

He criticized the government for failing to address the environmental devastation caused by galamsey and called for stronger, more transparent measures to combat the menace.

Afenyo-Markin also cautioned the Majority against using their numerical strength to intimidate the Minority and demanded the release of the report on the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Esaaba Torkonoo, as well as details surrounding the nomination of Justice Baffoe-Bonnie.

However, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga dismissed the Minority’s claims, insisting that the fight against illegal mining has rather improved under the NDC government through intensified enforcement and reforms in the mining sector.

Source: AdomOnline

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Addressing Parliament on Thursday, February 13, Afenyo-Markin stated that he had been in contact with Ofori-Atta, who assured him of his willingness to cooperate with any investigations upon his return.

“If there is any case against any former government official, due process must be followed, and I am certain that will bring peace to all,” the Minority Leader said.

He also reaffirmed the Minority’s commitment to working with the government when necessary while maintaining their role as an opposition caucus.

Afenyo-Markin noted that the former Minister was deeply troubled by allegations against him.

“As of this morning, Ken Ofori-Atta told me he is distressed by the accusations leveled against him, but he remains steadfast in his faith. He is currently undergoing medical treatment,” he disclosed.

He further revealed that the Chief of Staff had confirmed Ofori-Atta officially informed the government before his departure.

“I am confident that he will return within a reasonable time. If any investigations are required, he will make himself available,” Afenyo-Markin assured.

He added that he would engage with the Office of the Special Prosecutor to address any concerns and ensure Ofori-Atta’s cooperation with ongoing investigations.

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According to Mrs. Ayamba, the Minority Leader and MP for Effutu, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, launched an unprovoked attack on the committee clerk, Gifty Jiagge-Gobah.

Speaking before the investigative committee, Mrs. Ayamba recounted, “As soon as we began, the minority entered, and what I witnessed was a direct attack by the Minority Leader on the clerk, Gifty Jiagge-Gobah, without any provocation.”

“As a woman, I could not sit back and watch this happen. It made me uncomfortable, and it continued for some time before I felt the need to stand up,” she added.

When the chairman instructed the clerk to administer the oath to the nominee, something she had already done, Mrs. Ayamba noticed that, due to the ongoing aggressive attack, the clerk was unable to proceed.

She immediately stepped in, encouraging Gifty, “You are supposed to listen to the chairman, not anyone else. Administer the oath, why are you sitting down?”

The situation worsened when unsavory remarks were directed at Gifty Jiagge-Gobah by some members of the minority, questioning her political affiliation and making personal attacks. Mrs. Ayamba could not stand idly by and allow this behavior to continue.

At one point, she turned to the Minority Leader and said, “She is a dignified woman, and with that, she doesn’t have to be spoken to in that way. Please, can you stop?”

Mrs. Ayamba expressed, “I could not just sit there and allow this to happen. As a woman, I felt it was my responsibility to stand up for Gifty. She deserves respect, and I could not let such behavior go unchecked.”

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In an interview on Joy News’ The Probe on Sunday, February 2, the Effutu MP expressed confidence, stating that he never felt personally targeted and believes the scrutiny he faces is a reflection of his effectiveness.

“I will never feel targeted. It is part of the game. I’m an opposition leader. You only get criticised when they see you being effective,” he said.

According to Mr. Afenyo-Markin, being in opposition comes with public and political scrutiny, which he views as an indication that he and his team are making an impact. He pointed out that previous Minority Leaders, such as J.H. Mensah, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, Alban Bagbin, and Haruna Iddrisu, all endured intense criticism during their tenures.

“The NDC is out on the rules because they see some effectiveness. They see a formidable opposition. We have a strong team. We make mistakes,” he acknowledged, stressing that no leadership is flawless, but his team remains resolute.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin referenced historical political confrontations, noting that even past Minority Leaders faced fiercer political attacks.

“Look, J.H. Mensah was attacked. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu came under attack. Alban Bagbin, as Minority Leader, came under attack. I won’t be the first. Haruna Iddrisu, they called him all manner of names. I’ve watched their videos. I’m a student of politics,” he explained.

The Minority Leader also pointed out the aggressive tactics employed by Alban Bagbin during his tenure, emphasizing how the current Speaker of Parliament relentlessly challenged President Kufuor’s administration.

“Bagbin did worse. Mr. Speaker, who is a top diplomat today, he did worse. Go and watch the videos, during the eight years, how he tormented John Kufuor. If I do a quarter of what Bagbin did to Kufuor to Mahama, I’m sure they won’t survive,” he remarked.

Despite the political pressure, Mr. Afenyo-Markin remains unbothered, asserting that his focus is on fulfilling his role effectively, rather than getting caught up in political theatrics.

“I’ve not criticised them so far—not that I’ve not started, I’ve just not criticised them,” he said, leaving open the possibility of more political manoeuvring ahead.

As Minority Leader, the Effutu MP expressed a clear understanding of the political landscape and the responsibility that comes with his role. He emphasized that whether his critics view him as a threat or a stumbling block, his leadership is driven by efficiency, and he will not be distracted by criticisms.

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Speaking on JoyNews’ The Probe on Sunday, February 2, the Effutu MP acknowledged the difficulties of his new role, stating that leadership within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) requires broad consultation.

“Well, it’s been challenging,” he admitted. “NPP is a party of equals. You need to really consult broadly. You cannot be taking unilateral decisions.”

Despite the pressures, Afenyo-Markin expressed gratitude to those who critique his work, acknowledging their role in shaping him into a better leader.

“Let me thank some very good friends who always analyze my actions—commending me when I do well and criticizing me where necessary. They continuously help shape me,” he said.

He described the position of Minority Leader as a demanding one that requires strength and resilience.

“To be in that hot seat is not easy. You need to have the strength to do it well. So, God be my guide. I keep praying,” he stated.

Afenyo-Markin revealed that faith plays a significant role in his leadership journey, noting that he has a strong prayer team and a supportive spiritual guide.

“Father has been very supportive. I have an Anglican priest in Winneba. I believe in prayer,” he said.

Responding to a remark by Communications Minister nominee Sam George regarding Holy Spirit baptism during his vetting, Afenyo-Markin offered a lighthearted response.

“When Sam George was talking about Holy Spirit baptism, I received mine way back at Saint Augustine’s College,” he noted. “He doesn’t know because we’ve never had the opportunity to talk about religion. But it’s okay, the time will come.”

Acknowledging that leadership comes with mistakes and learning curves, he expressed his commitment to personal and professional growth.

“I will make mistakes. There are portals along the way, and there are asphalt roads as well. We’ll navigate each one of them,” he said. “As we grow, we learn from our mistakes. I’m not a perfect guy.”

Reflecting on his political journey, Afenyo-Markin noted that growth is an ongoing process.

“The Afenyo-Markin of 2013 is not the same as the Afenyo-Markin of today. If God grants me life, the Afenyo-Markin of the next eight years will also be different.”

For him, leadership is about continuous learning, listening, and making necessary adjustments.

“We learn on the job and accept our mistakes. People criticize you, and you go back to reflect. Sometimes, you may not admit it publicly, but you realize, ‘Oh no, I erred.’ You correct it and move on. That’s life—what else can I do?” he concluded.

As he navigates his new role, Afenyo-Markin remains determined to lead with humility and resilience, embracing both the challenges and opportunities that come with the position.

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“I keep my calm. I’m a very patient man. Sometimes people don’t get to know me well, but with time, those who do know who I am. I hardly get upset,” Afenyo-Markin said in an interview on JoyNews’ The Probe on Sunday, February 2.

He was addressing misconceptions about his temperament following the chaos that erupted during the Appointments Committee session.

The Appointments Committee descended into chaos on Thursday evening as tensions flared between members of the Minority and Majority, leading to a heated confrontation.

The clash escalated to the point where tables and microphones were destroyed, prompting police intervention to restore order and prevent further damage.

The Majority insisted on proceeding with the vetting session beyond 10 PM, but the Minority strongly opposed the move, declaring that they were done for the day.

In the ensuing confusion, some of the arranged tables were knocked over, and most of the microphones fell and were broken.

After about 30 minutes of disorder, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga and other leaders stepped in to calm tempers.

He announced that with the tables broken and microphones destroyed, the session could not continue, forcing the Committee to reschedule for the following day.

Mr. Ayariga apologized for the unfortunate incident and promised that the MPs would behave appropriately when the session resumed.

Speaking after the disruptions, Afenyo-Markin defended the Minority’s stance, insisting that nothing would stop them from asking the “necessary questions” during the vetting process. “You are aware that for some of the nominees, we don’t even ask questions. But where we have to ask the relevant questions, we do. Nothing will stop us from asking the necessary questions,” he said.

He also accused the Majority of attempting to intimidate the Minority, stating, “NDC is always out to intimidate people. Always bullying. They can call us a micro-minority. They can say whatever they want to say. We’ve been cooperating with them.”

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According to him, it is natural for citizens to condemn wrongdoing and praise commendable actions.

In an interview on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Sunday, February 2, in the aftermath of the altercation during the vetting process, Mr. Afenyo-Markin admitted that the public’s reaction was understandable.

He also assured that discussions were ongoing with the Speaker of Parliament to address the situation.

“As their leader, I understand the concerns. We have had discussions and will continue to engage with the Speaker of Parliament. I am sure that in the end, there will be political understanding, and certain statements will be made regarding the incident,” he stated.

The altercation, which saw tensions flare between the Majority and Minority during the Appointments Committee session, led to a heated confrontation that resulted in damaged microphones and overturned tables. The situation prompted police intervention before order was restored.

The public has criticized the actions of the legislators, with some calling for sanctions against those involved. Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin subsequently suspended four Members of Parliament (MPs) for two weeks, effective immediately. The suspended MPs include the two chief whips for both the Minority and Majority caucuses, Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor and Frank Annoh-Dompreh, as well as Alhassan Sulemana Tampuli and Jerry Ahmed Shaib.

Meanwhile, the Speaker has also set up a committee to probe the incident.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin urged the public to remain patient as parliamentary leadership works toward a resolution.

“When we’re done, all in all, there will be a political understanding, and then certain statements will be made regarding the incident. So, let’s wait for it,” he said.

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Speaking on Joy News’ The Probe on Sunday, February 2, the Effutu MP acknowledged the weight of his new responsibilities, describing the position as difficult and requiring wisdom, patience, and broad consultations.

“It’s been challenging. NPP is a party of equals. You need to really consult broadly. You cannot be taking unilateral decisions,” he stated.

Despite these challenges, Mr. Afenyo-Markin expressed confidence that he would succeed, attributing his resilience to his unwavering faith and reliance on God.

“So God be my guide. I keep praying. I have a prayer team. Father has been very supportive. I have an Anglican priest in Winneba. I believe in prayer.”

He also shared a personal revelation about his spiritual journey, responding to a recent comment by Samuel George, the Communications Minister nominee, regarding Holy Spirit baptism.

“When Sam George was talking about Holy Spirit baptism, I received Holy Spirit baptism way back in Saint Augustine’s College. He doesn’t know. We haven’t had the opportunity to talk about religion. But when people talk, just leave them. The time will come.”

For Mr. Afenyo-Markin, leadership is a journey of continuous learning and growth. He admitted that he is not perfect and expects to make mistakes along the way.

“I will make mistakes. There are potholes on the way. There are asphalt roads on the way. We’ll get to each one of them. As we grow, we learn from our mistakes. I’m not a perfect guy.”

Reflecting on his evolution as a politician, he acknowledged his personal and professional growth over the years.

“I know Afenyo-Markin of 2013 is not the same Afenyo-Markin of today. If God gives me life, my Afenyo-Markin in the next eight years will not be the same as the Afenyo-Markin of today.”

He admitted that criticism is an inevitable part of leadership, but he sees it as an opportunity for self-reflection and improvement.

“People criticize you, and you go back. Sometimes, you may not admit it publicly, but you realize, ‘Oh no, I erred.’ You correct it and move on. That is life. What else can I do?”

Mr. Afenyo-Markin’s words paint a picture of a leader who is both self-aware and deeply rooted in his faith. As he takes on the challenge of leading the Minority in Parliament, he remains steadfast in his belief that with God on his side, he will rise to the occasion and make a meaningful impact.

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Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, January 21, Mr Afenyo-Markin accused the President of failing to uphold his campaign promise to ensure at least 30% of government appointments go to women, as mandated by the Affirmative Action Law.

The gender debate emerged when the Speaker of Parliament read the President’s latest list of ministerial nominees, which reportedly did not include any women.

This omission, according to Afenyo-Markin, is a stark deviation from the President’s commitment to champion gender equality in leadership.

“It appears President John Mahama is not willing to stick to his own promise made to Ghanaians prior to the 2024 elections that nearly 30% of all appointments would go to women in his government,” Mr Afenyo-Markin lamented.

He further criticised the President for not matching the record of former President Nana Akufo-Addo, whom he described as a true gender champion.

“There are over 30 women elected to Parliament from the NDC majority side. Of all these hardworking women, only a handful have been given substantive ministerial appointments.

“Is it the case that they are being matched for deputy ministerial roles? That is not right. Our women cannot be second-class appointees,” he asserted.

The Effutu MP called on the President to demonstrate genuine belief in the competence and capability of women, arguing that inclusive representation is critical for addressing systemic gender inequality.

Speaking at the NDC’s national campaign launch in Tamale on Saturday, he expressed strong confidence in the NDC’s chances in the upcoming elections noting that there won’t be a hung Parliament.

“I project a working majority for the NDC in the next election. I cannot see a hung parliament. I see clearly the NDC winning a good majority to manage the affairs of this nation,” he said.

The Ajumako-Enyan-Esiam MP attributed this optimism to the declining popularity of the NPP MPs and government among Ghanaians.

“The MPs represent the party and government in their constituencies so I can comfortably project a good working majority for the NPP in the next Parliament,” he added.

Ghana experienced a hung parliament following the 2020 general elections, where both the NPP and the NDC secured 137 seats each, with one independent candidate holding the balance of power.

This unprecedented scenario led to a highly competitive and contentious political environment, with both parties needing to collaborate or seek the support of the independent MP to pass legislation and govern.

But Speaker of Parliament, Kingsford Alban Sumani Bagbin, has said another hung parliament could help strengthen Ghana’s parliamentary democracy.

According to hum, this current hung parliament is more of a blessing than a curse to Ghana’s democracy.

“We are lucky that God blessed us with a hung parliament and I will encourage you to let us go that way for some time.

“Why? Because that allows you to sit to reason, not to act like a mob because of the majority numbers. There is usually no time to sit and think but just rush … so even when you win the debate, you lose the vote. So indeed, there is a lot to be grateful to the Lord Almighty for,” he noted.

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Speaking at a Leaders’ Media Briefing on Tuesday, June 11, the Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, announced that the government will introduce the Free Senior High School (SHS) Bill to Parliament to formalize the policy and ensure its long-term sustainability.

In a post on X, the Minority Leader, Cassiel Ato Forson clarified that no such bill exists before Parliament at this time, and as such, the NDC cannot be opposing a bill that they have not even seen.

He emphasized the pivotal role the NDC has played in the establishment and evolution of the Free SHS initiative.

Dr. Forson also highlighted that the NDC began the practical implementation of the Free SHS program in 2015, initially targeting day students in public Senior High Schools.

“There is currently no such bill before Parliament. We cannot oppose a bill that we have not seen. For the records, it was the NDC that birthed the 1992 Constitution which provided the legal framework for the introduction of Free Secondary Education in Ghana,” the Minority Leader stated.

“Also, it was the NDC that commenced the implementation of the Free SHS program in the year 2015 for all day students in public senior high schools, totaling over 320,000, with a clear plan to expand coverage to include 120,000 boarding students by 2017,” he added.

Ato Forson further explained that the NDC’s current stance on the Free SHS program is not one of opposition but rather of constructive improvement.

Earlier, the NDC flagbearer, John Mahama, announced a review of the Free SHS policy within the first 100 days of taking office if elected president in the 2024 general elections.

He accused the NPP of double standards in the ongoing discourse surrounding the review of the Free SHS policy.

“Within the first 100 days in government, we will convene a stakeholder summit that brings together educationists, experts, teachers, parents, students, and opinion leaders to deliberate on how to improve the implementation of the Free SHS system and also improve the quality of our basic education,” Mr. Mahama stated.

However, Ato Forson mentioned that the NDC is ready to support any legislative efforts that aim to fortify the Free SHS program.

“The position of the NDC on the Free SHS program as publicly communicated by our flag-bearer and leader is to improve the implementation of the programme and address the challenges bedeviling it through a consultative approach. Thus, the NDC will support any legislation or effort aimed at making the Free SHS programme better and sustainable,” he said.

Read the full post below:

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Dr. Forson, who represents Ajumako Enyan Essiam Constituency in Parliament, contends that the President has been sidelined, rendering him a “lame duck” with diminished control over New Patriotic Party MPs.

He asserts that recent developments in Parliament indicate a shift in loyalty and allegiance among NPP MPs toward the party’s new flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

During an interview with JoyNews regarding President Akufo-Addo’s potential stance on the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, Dr. Forson predicted that NPP MPs would align with the Minority to pass the bill into law.

He argues that this perceived shift reflects President Akufo-Addo’s weakening influence within his own party.

“Two years ago, I wouldn’t be sure that NPP MPs will break ranks with President Akufo-Addo but now the President is weak within his own party. They see him more or less as lame. He is a lame duck. They have a new leader, and you can see that loyalty and allegiance have moved from the President to the new flagbearer. I sit in Parliament and I see it by the day.”

“So it won’t be like yesterday [referring to the past]. That is why even the Vice President himself went and criticised the President’s policies and all of that. He is President of Ghana but within his own party, he is lame. He is gone. Loyalty has moved and he is not in charge and I see that every day,” he told JoyNews’ Evans Mensah.

In addition, Dr. Ato Forson disclosed that the contentious Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill is slated for passage by Friday, February 16.

Dr Forson stated that the bill has undergone thorough consideration, and is currently being perused to ensure that all proposed amendments approved by Parliament have been appropriately captured.

“By the weekend Ghana should have a bill called Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill,” he said.

The Bill is designed to prohibit activities related to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals within the country.

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The Minority Leader, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson voiced dissatisfaction during a debate on the approval of GH¢29.5 billion for the Education Ministry, emphasising the inadequacy of the GHS600,000 funds allocated for special schools such as the Akuapim School for the Deaf and the Akropong School for the Blind.

“Even though the ministry has been allocated GH¢29.5 billion, only GH¢673,429 under 1 million has been allocated to special education. Mr Speaker, special education is something that we need to take quite seriously as a country.

“I think that it is something that we should be interested in and get the Ministry of Finance to do some reallocation. So that schools for the deaf and other special education will be covered. Because less than 1 million is being allocated for special education.” He said.

The Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, also echoed these concerns and appealed to the government to prioritise special education.

“I don’t want to believe that it is a typo error. We need to spend more on the special schools, not the non-formal education. So I will want to plead that if we can do a reallocation from the non-formal education to the special schools, it should be done,” he said.

The MPs were recalled from recess for what has been described as “an urgent Parliamentary business”.

This was through a notice issued by the Office of the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin.

The Minority Leader, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, taking to Twitter revealed he has been inundated with numerous calls demanding answers about the urgent recall.

According to him, he equally heard about it in the media but has been informed the sitting will be for a day for the House to consider loan agreements currently before it.

He, has, however, questioned the courage of government to continue with what he describes as reckless borrowing which has destroyed the economy beyond recognition for generations to come.

By Parliamentary practice, leadership, comprising leaders from both caucuses, speaker, board and clerks, will agree on critical issues such as a recall, but this directive by Speaker Bagbin didn’t include the NDC Caucus before making it public.

Members went on recess in April after a banter of passing three controversial revenue measure bills, which went in favour of the Majority caucus.

They secured 137 votes against 136 of the Minority.

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According to him, they will move swiftly to address the agitations surrounding the programme.

In December 2022, Mr Ofori-Atta launched the programme as part of efforts to access the $3 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund.

It has, however, been fraught with challenges as various interest groups including labour and individual bondholders have lamented it will lead them to a sorry state.

So far the government has extended the deadline for eligible bondholders two times but individual bondholders are asking for an exclusion.

As a result, they picketed at the Finance Ministry from Monday to Friday to press home their demands.

A former Chief Justice, Sophia Akuffo, on Friday joined the protest and asked pensioners not to subscribe to the programme.

Madam Akuffo, who was livid in an interview, threatened court action against the government if the programme is pushed through.

Taking to Twitter, Dr Ato Forson said it is disheartening to see pensioners picketing at the Ministry of Finance to reject their inclusion.

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“It is disheartening to see our dear pensioners including a former Chief Justice picketing at the MOF over the domestic debt restructuring.

“I wish to assure her and the rest, parliament is dragging the Finance Minister before us next week and we will represent their interest fully,” the Ajumako Enyan Essiam MP tweeted.

Meanwhile, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin has directed the Business Committee to schedule Mr Ofori-Atta for briefing on the programme on Tuesday, February 14, 2023.

Below is the tweet:

It is disheartening to see our dear pensioners including a former Chief Justice picketing at the MOF over the domestic debt restructuring.
I wish to assure her & the rest, parliament is dragging the Finance Minister before us next week and we will represent their interest fully! pic.twitter.com/SNZwIy8NkY

— Cassiel Ato Forson(PhD) (@Cassielforson) February 10, 2023

According to him, the members of the Minority Caucus are in good hands and will work with them with due diligence.

Dr Forson made these marks when he addressed his first press conference on Thursday in Parliament following his appointment on Tuesday.

He called on the Caucus for a collaborative effort which he said was vital for their success in parliament.

As a leader, he pledged it will be his duty to represent our collective goals with unwavering dedication and high integrity.

Dr Forson, who is the Ajumako Anyan-Essiam Member of Parliament (MP) succeeds Tamale South MP, Haruna Iddrisu, who had served since 2017.

He will be working with Ellembelle MP; Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah who also replaced Ketu North MP; James Klutse Avedzi as the Deputy Minority Leader while Kwame Governs Agbodza replaced Asawase MP, Muntaka Mubarak as the Minority Chief Whip.

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It’s a coup d’état – Titus-Glover on Minority leadership changes 

Check out profile of new Minority Leadership in Parliament

In an earlier statement, the new leader said he has had fruitful and positive engagements with his predecessor, Mr Iddrisu.

Dr Ato Forson has expressed appreciation to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for the trust and confidence reposed in him.

The Ranking Member on the Finance Committee was in a statement signed by the NDC General Secretary Fifi Kwetey announced as a replacement for Tamale South MP, Haruna Iddrisu.

Mr Iddrisu who had served since 2017 together with Minority Whip and Asawase MP; Muntaka Mubarak among others were affected by the shake-up.

His appointment has been met with agitation from the rank and file of the party amidst demands for the NDC leadership to reverse its decision.

About 48 Minority MPs have kicked against the reshuffle while 77 have declared their support for the appointee.

But in a Facebook post, Ato Forson has expressed gratitude to his Minority colleagues the rank and file of our party and the Ghanaian people for their profound support and solidarity.

He also revealed he has engaged his predecessor, Mr Iddrisu who he described as a senior brother and commended him for his service over the years.

The Minority Leader expressed optimism the party will succeed through collaborative efforts and admonished all hands to be on deck.

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On his own behalf as a leader, he pledged to represent the NDC’s collective goal with unwavering dedication and high integrity.

Meanwhile, the NDC leadership is expected to meet the caucus today over the reshuffle.

Below is the full post:

According to him, the delegates will elect a leadership that will unseat the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government. 

The Tamale South MP says the NPP government has been disappointing and has improvised the citizens. 

He added that the NDC cannot afford to fail Ghanaians any longer. 

“We will elect a leadership that will unseat the New Patriotic Party. The non-performing government, the NPP. 

“They are incredibly disappointing because we have to end the economic mess they have created with its corresponding excruciating hardships,” Mr Iddrisu said. 

The largest opposition party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will elect its new executives today. 

Delegates will converge today, Saturday, December 17, at the Accra sports Stadium for the exercise. 

Some 9,200 delegates are expected to be from the 276 constituencies that will partake in the elections. 

Mr Ofosu-Ampofo’s role as the NDC’s National Chairman is threatened by the decision of the party’s General Secretary, Johnson Asiedu Nketia to unseat him.

Political analysts have described it as the main contest in the party’s upcoming National Delegates Congress.

Mr Nketia is taking steps to take control of the party as National Chairman ahead of the 2024 general election.

Meanwhile, the Deputy General Secretary in charge of Operations, Dr Peter Boamah Otokunor is vying for the coveted office of General Secretary. 

However, he is keenly contested by the party’s 2020 Director of Elections, Elvis Afryie-Ankrah and a former Ketu South Member of Parliament, Fifi Fiavi Kwettey. 

According to the Leader, the Special Prosecutor and his staff have not been paid for the last 16 months and their salaries have not been determined.

He further argued that the judiciary put before President Akufo-Addo, some demands and yet the President has not satisfied such demands.

The Tamale South MP made these observations when the Chairman of the Constitutional legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee wanted to present the committee’s report for the house to approve the 2023 annual budget estimate for the above-mentioned institutions.

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Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Constitution, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Kwame Anyimadu Antwi revealed that the Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, has met the Committee demands and all outstanding matters have been settled.

Minority Leader, Haruna Iddrisu, has described the 2023 Budget as Eka mp3 dede budget.

The Tamale South MP passed this comment after the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, presented the statement in Parliament on Thursday.

He explained his Eka mp3 dede statement was in relation to the Minister’s declaration that Ghana is now considered to be in high-risk debt distress due to the current debt sustainability analysis.

“This budget puts the country on the path of debt restructuring which he announced as a debt exchange programme. So this budget is eka mp3 dede,” he said amidst laughter from colleague parliamentarians.

The lawmaker added his expectations were that Mr Ofori-Atta will regularise his borrowing in accordance with the Bank of Ghana’s (BoG) amended act 2016.

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The Minister explained the sustainability of Ghana’s debt has been continuously affected by the negative impact of exchange rate depreciation, particularly on external debt, as well as the crystallization of significant contingent liabilities in recent years.

He further noted that government will continue to strengthen its oversight of all State Owned Enterprises, in particular, financial and energy sectors.

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According to him, government’s constant attribution of the challenges the country is facing to the Russian-Ukraine war is untenable.

“I know COVID resources were misused, I only want to understand how it was misused. So if President Akufo-Addo believes in the tenets of accountability and transparency let him audit the COVID expenditure,” he told GHOne TV.

Haruna Iddrisu’s call has been backed by former President John Mahama who has accused government of using funds met to fight the COVID-19 pandemic to win the 2020 polls.

“We went into the pandemic without adequate buffers, and have emerged with a terribly battered economy. To make matters worse, the pandemic windfall of over GH¢33 billion which could have cushioned the economy remains unaudited and is believed to have been used largely in the quest to win the 2020 elections at all cost” Mr Mahama disclosed in his address at the 24th African Business Conference organized by the Harvard Business School.

Meanwhile, government has vehemently denied Mr. Mahama’s assertion.

Information Minister, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah also described the Minority’s call for probe into COVID expenditure as premature.

These officials, according to him, were the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta and Minister of State at the sector, Charles Adu Boahen.

Speaking at the launch of the Ghana Telecommunications Chamber’s 10th anniversary in Accra on Thursday, he said it all happened about a week ago.

“On E-Levy, a week ago, I was no, no, no, we won’t accept the E-Levy but having listened to officials in government, including the Minister of Finance and Charles Adu Boahen, I was convinced to accept a departure of my original no to accepting a 1 per cent E-Levy for the good of the Ghanaian people,” he said.

Mr Iddrisu, who is also the Tamale South Member of Parliament, noted though he will have difficulty convincing his constituents on the levy, he accepts responsibility for the outcome, adding it was for the good of the country.

“And therefore if the government is able to make overtures and reach out and say that we want to peg the electronic levy at one per cent, I would have a difficulty convincing my constituency but I take full responsibility because that should be our contribution to fiscal consolidation and our contribution to ensuring that the economy doesn’t collapse on any of us going into the future,” he added.

Describing it as double taxation, he cautioned the government not to overburden citizens.

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In his view, the levy should be imposed on mobile money and other electronic transactions that exceed GH¢300, adding he initially wanted it to be from GH¢500.

A 1.75% tax on electronic transactions was announced by the Finance Minister, Mr Ofori-Atta, during the 2022 budget presentation on Wednesday, November 17, 2021.

Mr Ofori-Atta explained the levy is to increase tax revenue for the country, adding that it is occasioned by the surge in mobile money transactions during the Covid-19 pandemic of 2020.

Speaking with JoyNews, Mr Mensah-Bonsu indicated that claims of members in the Minority chairing the yet to be approved Committees are false.

According to him, legislators of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in 2009, after winning the 2008 general election, constituted the Majority Caucus, hence chaired the various approved Committees in Parliament.

He, therefore, indicated that holding the Majority side in the 8^th Parliament, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs will chair the various Committees.

“On what account does the NDC want to chair the various Committees?” he quizzed.

He said the ratio in Parliament is not 137 to 137 but rather 138 to 137.

“For purposes of transacting businesses if the person (Fomena MP) joins, that is it. You should go into history to see what happened. In 2009, after the election, Parliament was to be sworn in, the NDC had 114 members.

“The number at the time was 230, they didn’t have a majority. They were joined by other parties and independent members to cross the 115 barrier and that made them the Majority Caucus, for which reason they chaired all committees in the House. What is different now?” he added.

The Suame MP further stated that three Committees have so far been approved by Parliament. They include the Committee of Selection, Business Committee and the Appointments Committee.

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The Appointments Committee, which sees to the vetting of nominees appointed by President Nana Akufo-Addo, is chaired by First Deputy Speaker, Joseph Osei Owusu and assisted by Alexander Afenyo-Markin.

The two legislators both form part of the Majority Group in Parliament.

Meanwhile, the 2021 fiancial budget will be presented to Parliament this Friday, March 12.

On the said matter, the Majority Leader says its composition will be taken to plenary for consideration and approval.