There’ll be no showdown on Tuesday, we’ll simply walk out – Afenyo-Markin
Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has dismissed concerns about a potential confrontation in Parliament when it reconvenes on Tuesday, October 22. He emphasized that if tensions rise, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) majority would simply walk out rather than engage in any disputes with the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
His comments follow a press conference held by the NDC, during which they declared plans to take control of the Majority side of Parliament. This comes after Speaker Alban Bagbin’s recent ruling, which declared four parliamentary seats vacant, effectively leaving the NDC with 136 seats and a slim majority over the NPP’s 135. The NDC indicated that they would take immediate legislative action on issues such as amending the Communication Tax (e-levy) and appointing a new Second Deputy Speaker.
Afenyo-Markin, speaking on Peace FM on Monday, October 21, highlighted that the NPP has already taken the matter to the Supreme Court for interpretation and expects the Court’s orders to be served to Parliament soon. He downplayed the likelihood of dramatic clashes in the chamber, stating that the NPP is more focused on respecting the legal process and the Court’s directives rather than engaging in political theatrics.
“As far as we are concerned, the Supreme Court has issued a directive, and Parliament will be served. If the need arises, we will simply walk out,” he stated, signaling the NPP’s intention to follow the legal proceedings.
The upcoming parliamentary session has drawn significant public attention due to the Speaker’s ruling and the resulting constitutional debate on the balance of power and the judiciary’s role in parliamentary affairs. Despite the tensions, Afenyo-Markin’s comments suggest that the NPP will prioritize legal compliance over conflict.