Tensions flared during the vetting of ministerial nominees when Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin accused Bernard Ahiafor, Chairman of the Appointments Committee, of exhibiting rude behavior and proceeding in bad faith.
The disagreement arose when Afenyo-Markin raised concerns about addressing the roles of Chief Executive Officers and Managing Directors in the vetting process, which the Majority deemed irrelevant. The conflict delayed the scheduled vetting of Kwame Governs Agbodza, minister-designate for Roads and Highways, which was to commence at 10:00 AM but had yet to begin by 11:54 AM.
Despite a five-minute suspension intended to ease tensions, frustrations persisted, culminating in an intense exchange.
“Chairman, don’t raise your voice. You suspended sitting for 5 minutes and called me. I told you I was meeting with my caucus and would join, yet you proceeded without us. I want to register my protest that you have acted in bad faith,” Afenyo-Markin stated.
He further criticized the Chairman and his colleagues for what he perceived as dismissive conduct:
“Mr. Chairman, all your colleagues, including you, have been very rude to me this morning. The rate at which I’m being interrupted is unacceptable.”
Following objections from other committee members about his remarks, Afenyo-Markin apologized to the Chairman, but the incident highlighted simmering frustrations over the handling of the vetting process.
The clash underscores the heightened political tensions in Parliament, particularly during crucial ministerial vetting sessions, and raises questions about maintaining decorum in such engagements.