Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has stated that Manhyia South MP, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, is being victimised due to his outspoken nature as a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Parliament. Afenyo-Markin made these comments after visiting Baffour Awuah, who is currently in the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). According to Afenyo-Markin, the continuous pursuit of opposition members by the NDC government is an attempt to silence critical voices and instill fear among those expected to scrutinize government business.
Afenyo-Markin expressed his admiration for Baffour Awuah, describing him as one of the NPP's "young sharpshooters" and a hard worker. He stated that despite his predicament, Baffour Awuah remains in high spirits. Afenyo-Markin drew parallels between Baffour Awuah's situation and that of the NPP's forebears, who suffered greatly during their time. He encouraged Baffour Awuah not to give up, citing the need for unity and commitment among NPP members to bring the party's flagbearer to power.
The Minority Leader accused the NDC administration of perpetuating a vicious cycle of targeting political opponents upon assuming office. He claimed that this approach makes it difficult for moderates within the NPP to call for calm when they return to power. Afenyo-Markin used an analogy of police checks to describe the government's actions, stating that they are deliberately finding fault with their opponents.
Afenyo-Markin further alleged that the government is using corruption tags to silence critics, including social media activists. He expressed concern that this approach is aimed at instilling fear and preventing people from speaking out. Afenyo-Markin also threw a challenge to the NDC, asking what single legacy initiative President John Dramani Mahama would be remembered for by 2028.
The visit by Afenyo-Markin to Baffour Awuah was seen as a show of solidarity and support for the embattled MP. Afenyo-Markin's comments reflect the NPP's stance on the issue, which is that Baffour Awuah is being unfairly targeted by the government. The situation has sparked concerns about the state of politics in Ghana and the treatment of opposition members.
The NPP has called on its members to remain united and committed to the party's cause. Afenyo-Markin stressed that unity is crucial in bringing the party's flagbearer to power and working for the people of Ghana. He expressed hope that the NPP would be able to overcome the current challenges and emerge stronger.
The issue has sparked a wider debate about the dynamics of politics in Ghana and the need for a more civil and respectful approach to political discourse. Key points raised include the need for unity among NPP members and the alleged victimisation of opposition members by the government.
Key points
- The government is using corruption tags to silence critics
- Baffour Awuah is being victimised due to his outspoken nature as an NPP member
- The NPP has called for unity among its members to overcome current challenges