Tensions erupted between Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga during the vetting of Chief Justice nominee, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, on Monday, November 10.
The confrontation began when Mr. Ayariga objected to Mr. Afenyo-Markin’s attempt to deliver his opening remarks, arguing that the matter had already been addressed in Parliament through a previously filed motion.
Earlier in the session, Mr. Afenyo-Markin referred to Justice Baffoe-Bonnie as a “disputed Chief Justice nominee,” a comment that immediately drew objections from the Majority Leader.
According to Mr. Ayariga, the vetting committee was “not a courtroom proceeding,” and he demanded that the Minority Leader withdraw the statement and issue an apology.
In response, Mr. Afenyo-Markin accused Mr. Ayariga of “acting in bad faith” and attempting to suppress the Minority’s right to freely express their views during the exercise.
He further criticised the process that led to the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, describing it as “opaque,” a remark that again drew strong objection from the Majority Leader.
The heated exchanges highlighted the political tensions and partisan divides surrounding the vetting of the acting Chief Justice, reflecting the charged atmosphere in Parliament over the nomination process.