Afenyo-Markin justifies Appointments Committee’s decision not to vet Linda Ocloo

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has defended the Appointments Committee’s choice to exempt Linda Obenewaa Ocloo Akweley, the Greater Accra Regional Minister-designate, from questioning during her vetting session.
The committee’s decision has sparked widespread debate, with critics arguing that bypassing the standard vetting process compromises transparency and accountability. Many question why the nominee was allowed to leave without addressing any inquiries.
Ocloo Akweley appeared before the committee in the company of traditional leaders and bipartisan political figures, including former Interior Minister Henry Quartey and former Greater Accra Regional Minister Titus Glover. After a brief introduction, she was dismissed without undergoing any scrutiny.
Speaking on The Point of View on Channel One TV, Afenyo-Markin justified the decision, explaining that committee members were already familiar with the capabilities and shortcomings of the nominees.
“Sometimes, when you ask too many questions, you face criticism. When you don’t ask at all, you also face criticism,” he remarked.
He emphasized that the committee evaluates candidates based on prior knowledge, balancing different factors rather than conducting a thorough interrogation in every case.
Rejecting claims that time constraints influenced the move, Afenyo-Markin stated, “It wasn’t about time, no, no.” When asked if the presence of chiefs and bipartisan supporters played a role in her exemption, he responded in a poetic manner, “But those placed at the lowest ebb of fortune are equally entitled to our regard, aren’t they?”
He remained noncommittal on whether the nominee would be recalled for questioning, noting that Parliament had already debated and approved her report.
Citing historical precedent, Afenyo-Markin referenced the late statesman Joseph Henry Mensah, who was also exempted from questioning during his vetting.
Recognizing the ongoing public debate, he conceded, “That’s one of our shortcomings, isn’t it? It’s one of those things—you may disagree with us, and that’s your right.”
The controversy surrounding the vetting process has reignited discussions on the need for greater transparency and accountability in Ghana’s political appointments.