Afenyo-Markin Claims Minority MPs Were Unfairly Targeted During Vetting Chaos

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has raised significant concerns regarding the recent suspension of three Minority Members of Parliament (MPs), claiming that the disciplinary actions taken by Speaker Alban Bagbin have been unfairly biased against the Minority Caucus.

The controversy stems from an incident that occurred during the vetting of nominees on Thursday, January 30, 2025. In response to the chaos that erupted during the vetting process, Speaker Bagbin suspended three MPs from the Minority Caucus. However, Afenyo-Markin believes that the decision was disproportionate, particularly given that only one MP from the Majority Caucus faced similar disciplinary measures.

In a formal letter to Speaker Bagbin, Afenyo-Markin emphasized his concerns about the lack of fairness in the disciplinary process. He pointed out that the suspension of three MPs from the Minority, in contrast to just one from the Majority, raised questions about whether the decision was politically motivated. He argued that suspending members from only one side of the aisle created a perception of bias in the Speaker’s actions.

“While the incident that led to the suspensions is regrettable, there is a growing perception that the Minority Caucus has been unfairly singled out in this matter,” Afenyo-Markin wrote in his letter to Speaker Bagbin. He further expressed that the Speaker’s actions might give the impression of political bias, which undermines the idea of impartiality in Parliament.

Afenyo-Markin’s letter also underlined the importance of adhering to due process when disciplining members of Parliament. He stressed that suspending MPs without giving them the opportunity to properly defend themselves against any allegations left room for doubts about the fairness of the process.

The Minority Leader’s letter also raised serious concerns about the Speaker’s neutrality. He pointed out that the Speaker of Parliament is supposed to act as a neutral figure who ensures that all members, regardless of their political affiliation, are treated equally and fairly. Afenyo-Markin reiterated that the Speaker should not be seen as taking sides in partisan issues, as this would undermine the credibility of Parliament as an institution.

“This situation is particularly concerning because the Speaker must remain neutral and impartial. The Speaker’s role is to ensure fairness in Parliament, and the perception of bias or selective justice undermines the integrity of the House,” Afenyo-Markin stated. He added that it was crucial for the Speaker to uphold the principles of fairness and transparency in all parliamentary proceedings.

The Minority Leader’s concerns reflect a broader sentiment within the Minority Caucus that they are being unfairly treated and targeted for disciplinary actions. Many Minority MPs have voiced frustrations over the manner in which the Speaker has handled disciplinary matters, particularly when compared to how similar incidents involving Majority MPs have been handled. The perception of an uneven application of discipline has led to increased tensions within Parliament.

Afenyo-Markin’s letter also called for the Speaker to reconsider the decision to suspend the MPs, suggesting that a fairer and more transparent process be followed moving forward. He emphasized the need for a balanced approach to discipline, one that ensures equal treatment for all members, regardless of their political party affiliation.

This incident comes at a time of heightened political tension within the country’s Parliament, with the Majority and Minority factions often at odds. The Speaker’s actions in handling this situation will likely continue to be a subject of debate, especially as it pertains to maintaining impartiality and fairness in the House.

As the issue continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Speaker Bagbin will address Afenyo-Markin’s concerns and whether any changes will be made to the way disciplinary actions are handled in the future. The Minority Leader’s call for a more neutral approach reflects the ongoing struggle for fairness in Ghana’s political landscape.