Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin Decries 'Intimidation' as NDC Majority Asserts Power in Parliament

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has raised an alarm over what he describes as a systematic strategy by the John Mahama administration to intimidate and silence the opposition through state investigations. Speaking on the current parliamentary landscape, Afenyo-Markin highlighted the significant challenges faced by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) caucus, which holds 87 seats against the National Democratic Congress (NDC) majority of 189 members. He alleged that several NPP MPs are being targeted with 'unfounded' investigations by the Bureau of National Investigation (BNI), creating a climate of fear that hinders free expression and substantive debate within the house. Despite these hurdles, the Minority Leader remains defiant, labeling his caucus a 'mighty minority' and vowing to prioritize the quality of their contributions to ensure their oversight role is not diminished by sheer numbers.

Central to the escalating tension between the two sides is a heated debate over the operations of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) and the Bank of Ghana’s Domestic Gold Purchase Programme. Afenyo-Markin has formally called for a parliamentary inquiry into reported losses amounting to GH₵22 billion, asserting that public accountability must prevail over political protectionism. In response, outgoing Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga defended the expenditures, arguing that the alleged losses are actually necessary costs incurred to stabilize the cedi and curb inflation. Ayariga emphasized that the government's gold purchase policy is a strategic economic lever that should be viewed through the lens of currency strengthening rather than simple financial loss.

The friction extends to local governance, where the NPP Communications Directorate in the Ahafo Region has called on President John Mahama to dismiss the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Asunafo North, Joseph Akparibo. The demand follows controversial remarks by the MCE, who reportedly described the 2019 creation of the Ahafo Region as a 'useless' initiative. This local dispute mirrors broader criticisms of the administration, including former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu's public disappointment in President Mahama's anti-corruption efforts and Bryan Acheampong’s warning that the NDC’s 'honeymoon' period with the electorate will soon end as Ghanaians demand tangible results and infrastructure delivery.

Internally, both major parties are repositioning themselves for future stability and electoral success. NDC Deputy General Secretary Mustapha Gbande has issued a strong call for unity and cohesion within the party's Volta Region base, warning that personal interests must not undermine the collective strength of the governing party. Simultaneously, former Minister Akwasi Opong-Fosu is engaging Western Region stakeholders to refine a message of 'Restoration and Renewal' in preparation for the 2028 cycle. As the Mahama administration moves past its inaugural months, the political atmosphere remains charged with demands for accountability, regional respect, and a shift from investigation-led politics to economic fulfillment.