According to Ghana Web report, Accra, Feb. 17, 2025 – A heated exchange took place in Parliament on Monday when Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader and Member of Parliament (MP) for Effutu, engaged in a tense argument with Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the MP for North Tongu, over Ablakwa’s nomination as Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs.
The disagreement escalated when Ablakwa accused Afenyo-Markin of corruption during the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, sparking a passionate defense from Afenyo-Markin. Agitated by the allegations, the Effutu MP strongly denied the claims and pledged to oppose Ablakwa’s appointment during his vetting by the Appointments Committee. “I will not stand by and allow these unfounded accusations to go unchallenged,” Afenyo-Markin was quoted as saying.
This altercation adds to the growing tension in Parliament as the government continues its vetting process for ministerial nominees. Afenyo-Markin has been at odds with the Appointments Committee Chairman over procedural matters in recent sessions, which have further complicated the approval process for key cabinet positions.
Despite the controversy, Ablakwa has garnered significant support for his nomination. A seasoned foreign policy advocate, Ablakwa has served as the Ranking Member of Ghana’s Parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s international relations, advocating for the rights of Ghanaian migrants, and holding the government accountable for foreign spending.
The ongoing conflict between Afenyo-Markin and Ablakwa has intensified the already charged atmosphere in Parliament. With Ablakwa set to appear before the Appointments Committee for his vetting, the question remains whether Afenyo-Markin’s vocal opposition will sway the committee’s final decision. Political analysts suggest that the infighting could have broader implications for Ghana’s governance, particularly if such disputes continue to influence key decisions in Parliament.