Minority Leader, Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has strongly condemned the government’s approach, calling it a dangerous misuse of state power and a threat to Ghana’s democratic credentials.
His remarks follow a failed attempt by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) to arrest Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, an opposition lawmaker and member of the Minority Caucus in Parliament, which has further escalated the political temperature in Ghana.
Speaking to the press following the attempted arrest, Afenyo-Markin expressed deep disappointment at what he described as an unprovoked and heavy-handed move against an MP who was simply expressing his views on ongoing investigations into alleged drug trafficking involving state actors.
“The Minority in Parliament least expected such a step to be taken by the government, by using agents of the state. Our country is a country of democracy.”
Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin
Afenyo-Markin, known for his measured stance in political discourse, made it clear that dissent in a democracy is not a crime, pointing out that the current administration’s tactics are doing more harm than good.
“The caucus expressed a view through its authorized member, Mr. Ntim Fordjour, a reverend minister and a politician. If the government disagrees with the views expressed, the government can also tell a side of the story. This is democracy.”
Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin
Minority Calls for Bipartisan Investigation
The Minority Leader did not stop at merely condemning the attempt to arrest Rev. Fordjour, he stressed the need for parliament to actively aid in resolving the alleged drug trafficking case.
He emphasized that the Minority Caucus is calling for a bipartisan inquiry into the matter, underscoring their willingness to work within constitutional frameworks, provided there is mutual respect and civility. “It’s not about we are inviting you [and] you come with armed men. We don’t need it.”
His call for dialogue rather than intimidation was a clear message to the powers that be: the days of silencing the opposition with brute force are over.
He went further to assure the government of the Minority’s readiness to collaborate when engaged respectfully but issued a firm warning: “We will not be intimidated. We will not be intimidated.”
Afenyo-Markin rallied his caucus behind Rev. Fordjour, making it known that no individual in their camp would be left vulnerable or made an example of.
“…Reverend [Hon. Fordjour] is not a loner. He has not walked alone. He will never walk alone. As a caucus, we have our various committee heads. He is the leader of the Defense and Interior Committee of our caucus. And, he speaks for the caucus. And, he expresses the views of the caucus.”
Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin
Afenyo-Markin’s rhetorical flair reached its peak when he drew a parallel between Rev. Fordjour’s ordeal and a biblical trial. “He walks through this unfortunate valley of the shadow of death. But he will fear no evil.”
He reinforced that Rev. Fordjour’s strength lies not only in his faith but in the “mighty 88”—a reference to the strength of the Minority Caucus behind him.
Call for Political Maturity
The Minority Leader also challenged the political class, across the aisle, to recommit to the ideals of the Constitution and Ghana’s democratic principles.
His tone, both defiant and constructive, urged maturity from leadership at all levels.
“Let me make it very clear that Hon. Fordjour cannot be made an example. Government officials, enough is enough. Stop it. Let’s engage. We are political actors.”
Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin
He wrapped up with a serious reminder about the government’s priorities, emphasizing the pressing issues the state must address.
According to him, this includes widespread joblessness and the urgent need for employment opportunities. “The Galamsey issue…So far, they have not demonstrated seriousness in dealing with Galamsey.”
His words implied that instead of targeting dissenting voices, the government’s focus should shift to solving pressing national problems.
In a rare show of statesmanship, Afenyo-Markin extended a conciliatory remark toward former President John Mahama.
He described him not merely as a politician but as a statesman, especially given that this would be his final term in office. “So, those who work under him should help him to leave a legacy.”
It was both a warning and a call to action—an invitation to those in power to rise above pettiness and steer the nation with dignity and foresight.
Whether this plea will be heeded remains to be seen. But if the Minority Leader’s passionate defense of democratic values is any indication, the opposition is prepared to fight—not with violence, but with words, principles, and unwavering unity.
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