Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has accused the Ghanaian government of exploiting state institutions to intimidate opposition lawmakers and suppress dissenting opinions. He described these actions as a systematic abuse of governmental power. Afenyo-Markin made these allegations on November 4, 2026, while addressing journalists. He emphasized that the Minority Caucus would not abandon its constitutional oversight responsibilities despite the alleged intimidation.
Afenyo-Markin reaffirmed the caucus's determination to scrutinize government policies and decisions while advocating for the interests of the Ghanaian public. He indicated that the Minority continued to enjoy considerable public support, which had strengthened its resolve to demand transparency and accountability from the government. According to Afenyo-Markin, several opposition lawmakers had experienced challenging circumstances, including arrests and detention, which he believed were attempts to undermine their determination.
The Minority Leader's remarks followed the removal of the Damongo Member of Parliament, Samuel Abu Jinapor, from the parliamentary chamber by a Parliamentary Marshal. Jinapor had declined to retract an allegation directed at the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. Afenyo-Markin clarified that the Minority had no reservations about legitimate legal accountability, emphasizing that every individual, irrespective of political affiliation or parliamentary status, must remain subject to the country's laws.
Afenyo-Markin cautioned against the weaponization of state institutions and governmental authority to compel political conformity. He insisted that the opposition would firmly resist any attempt to undermine its constitutional mandate. According to Afenyo-Markin, the Minority would continue discharging its parliamentary responsibilities despite the difficulties confronting its members. He stressed that alleged intimidation would not persuade the caucus to retreat from its oversight duties.
The Minority Leader reiterated that the opposition's determination to remain vocal in Parliament would not be swayed by intimidation or pressure. He declared that neither intimidation nor pressure would force the caucus into abandoning its position. Afenyo-Markin's comments reflect the ongoing tensions between the Minority Caucus and the government.
Afenyo-Markin's allegations are part of a broader context of concerns about the use of state power in Ghana. Other recent developments include the NPP's demand for the resignation of Interior Minister Muntaka over international cocaine seizures and EOCO's demand for nine years of financial records from a law firm linked to Manhyia North MP.
The situation remains volatile, with various stakeholders weighing in on the issue. The Anaesthetists have threatened a nationwide strike from December 1 over unresolved concerns, and the High Court has dismissed Adamus Australia's injunction application in a dispute over 90% Adamus Ghana shares.
Key points
- The Minority Leader accuses the government of using state power to intimidate opposition lawmakers.
- Afenyo-Markin emphasizes the Minority Caucus's determination to continue discharging its parliamentary responsibilities.
- The situation reflects ongoing tensions between the Minority Caucus and the government in Ghana.
