TThe Speaker of Parliament has just referred to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as a "micro-minority." Deputy Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin took vehement exception to the characterization. His reply, rendered in a combustible parliamentary debate, has generated a lot of controversy. Afenyo-Markin characterized the speaker's comment as unjustified and misleading.
The parliamentary representation of the NPP is a genuine offspring of Ghana's democracy and should not be delegitimized, Afenyo-Markin said. The party being described as a "micro-minority" undermines its capacity to influence legislative decisions, which are extremely critical to national development and checkered governance.
He emphasized that the NPP must be in Parliament to make contributions to policy and decision-making. In a political landscape where collaboration is required to address national issues, Afenyo-Markin appealed to the Speaker and other MPs to utter words that will bring respect and harmony.
Afenyo-Markin's comments have drawn a lot of flak from political and public opinion, with some defending him and demanding more civilized debate in parliament. Others see the speaker's comments as a mirror of the majority forces in the house.
He reaffirmed that debates in parliament had to be professional and cautioned that insulting language could destroy the confidence of the public and tarnish the image of the legislature in government. To save Ghana's democratic image, he called on members to direct their energies towards facilitating constructive engagements.
This is an indication of the typical differences of opinion between Parliament's Majority and Minority sides. Afenyo-Markin's stance in defense of the NPP is a demonstration of his resolve to retain the party in power and facilitate fair representation within Ghanaian democracy.
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