Bernard Ahiafor, Chairman of Parliament’s Appointments Committee, has warned that the Minority will be reported to the Privileges Committee if he does not issue an unqualified apology to the Clerk of Parliament’s Appointment Committee.
In a live televised outburst, Alexander Afenyo-Markin accused Gifty Jiagge-Gobah of being partisan, an accusation he repeated in numerous press conferences and media interviews.
He claimed she was working in support of the National Democratic Congress.
According to sources, his words sparked a melee among committee members, halting the vetting process that day.
In response to the chaos, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin suspended four MPs and directed the Clerk to file a formal complaint with the police.
In an interview with PM Express on Monday, the Adaklu MP provided an update on the incident, describing Afenyo-Markin’s attack on Jiagge-Gobah as “very reckless, very needless, and uncalled for.”
The Akatsi South MP further said that the situation is far from over, saying, “A Member of Parliament cannot behave in that manner.”
He indicated that Mr Afenyo-Markin’s actions would be reported to the Privileges Committee, where he could face serious penalties if he does not apologise.
Yes, he should join me in apologizing to the Committee Clerk. If he takes advantage of this chance, there will be no need to refer him to Privileges.
“If he fails to do so, then we will follow the rules, and whatever is applicable will be enforced,” she said.
In the following days, Mr Afenyo-Markin will be given the opportunity to apologise and resolve the problem amicably. However, if he refuses, the disciplinary procedure will begin.
Despite the scandal, Afenyo-Markin has gotten strong support from the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), which has accused Speaker Bagbin of dictatorial behavior by suspending three of its MPs.
The party has condemned the move, stating that it threatens its ability to keep the administration accountable.
Meanwhile, the Appointments Committee will meet soon to assess deputy ministerial nominations, which are scheduled to be revealed by President John Mahama in the coming days.
