Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader in Parliament, has hit back at attacks from Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) Chief Executive Officer, Sammy Gyamfi. The public dispute began when Mr. Afenyo-Markin accused Mr. Gyamfi of making defamatory allegations against him.
Minority Leader Unfazed by Attacks
Speaking on JoyNews' The Probe, Mr. Afenyo-Markin said he is prepared to withstand the political pressure and attacks that come with his position. He stressed that he will not be the first Minority Leader to face such challenges, citing the experience of current Majority Leader and former Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson. Dr. Forson faced criminal proceedings while serving as Minority Leader under the previous administration but continued to perform his parliamentary duties.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin noted that opposition leaders often face political pressure and legal challenges, and that he is no exception. He pointed to the experiences of opposition leaders in other jurisdictions, saying some had faced even more severe consequences while performing their roles. "In opposition, like I said, was Ato Forson not in court? Was his situation not worse than mine? Do you get what I mean?" he asked.
Focus Remains on GoldBod Losses
The Minority Leader maintained that the Minority would remain focused on its concerns over the Bank of Ghana's Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP) and the reported losses associated with it. "We want to focus. We promised the people of Ghana that we would file a motion; we have filed that motion," he said. The Minority's position is a matter of national interest rather than a partisan campaign against the government, Mr. Afenyo-Markin emphasized.
No Emotional Response
Mr. Afenyo-Markin also addressed the public dispute with Mr. Gyamfi, saying he would not allow emotions to dictate his response. He recalled the biblical story of Jesus being accused and choosing to remain silent. "I have made certain statements. I would rely on them without more. Don't rush. In the Bible, Jesus was accused; wild allegations. He kept quiet and watched them. He could have done anything," he said.
Next Steps
The Minority Leader said he understands the responsibilities attached to his position and is prepared to face whatever challenges come with it. He also called for the planned parliamentary hearing into the reported GoldBod losses to be broadcast live, arguing that the public deserves to follow the proceedings. The hearing is expected to take place once the motion is carried, and Mr. Afenyo-Markin is confident that the Minority will continue to press for transparency and accountability in the government's dealings.
Source: Joy Online
