The Member of Parliament for the Okre Constituency in the Eastern Region, Hon. Daniel Nana Addo Kenneth, has called on the incoming Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Hon. Ablah Dzifah Gomashie, to prioritise domestic tourism and explore the commercialisation of festivals and funerals to generate revenue for national development.
Hon. Kenneth made this appeal during his contribution to a motion on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, January 23, 2025, to adopt the Appointments Committee’s report on ministerial nominations.
He highlighted the untapped potential of Ghanaian funerals, which are rich in cultural displays, and suggested their inclusion on the tourism calendar to attract foreign visitors.
“There should be a special agency to document and promote our funerals, especially those of chiefs and important public figures. The culture of laying in state and the accompanying ceremonies are unique and could generate significant revenue if marketed well,” he stated.
The MP also emphasized the need to move beyond mere attendance at festival durbars and fully utilize the week-long traditional festivities to showcase Ghana’s cultural heritage. Citing the Tuesday of Odwira in Okre, he described the vibrant traditional displays involving fetish priests and priestesses, which could be a major attraction for tourists.
“The uniqueness of our traditions, like the Tuesday of Odwira in my district, with its procession of possessed fetish priests and priestesses, is an incredible cultural exhibition. Commercializing these events will not only promote our culture but also boost tourism revenue,” he added.
Hon. Kenneth urged the Minister to explore these opportunities to tap into Ghana’s cultural wealth, stressing that tourism, if effectively harnessed, could address many of the country’s economic challenges.
This call serves as a reminder of the vast potential within Ghana’s tourism sector, particularly through the lens of cultural and traditional experiences, which remain largely underexploited.
Source: Clement Akoloh||parliamentnews360.com
[post_date_unix] => 1737664089 [post_date] => January 23, 2025 [post_modified] => January 23, 2025 [post_author_url] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/author/parliamentnews360/ [post_author_name] => Clement Akoloh [post_author_email] => senaakoloh@gmail.com [post_comments_no] => 0 [post_comments_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/okre-mp-urges-tourism-minister-to-focus-on-domestic-tourism-and-commercialise-festivals-and-funerals/#respond [post_theme_settings] => Array ( ) ) [2023] => Array ( [post_id] => 2023 [post_type] => post [has_post_thumbnail] => 1 [post_thumbnail_id] => 2024 [post_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/mahama-ayariga-takes-over-as-majority-leader-in-parliament/ [post_title] => Mahama Ayariga Takes Over as Majority Leader in Parliament [post_title_attribute] => Mahama Ayariga Takes Over as Majority Leader in Parliament [post_excerpt] => The Member of Parliament for Bawku Central in the Upper East Region, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, has been appointed as the substantive Majority Leader of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Parliament. [post_content] =>The Member of Parliament for Bawku Central in the Upper East Region, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, has been appointed as the substantive Majority Leader of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Parliament.
A seasoned politician and a Harvard-trained lawyer, Hon. Ayariga is a five-term MP. He succeeds Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, who has been appointed as Finance Minister in the second term of President John Dramani Mahama's administration.
The announcement was made by Rt. Hon. Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin during a Parliamentary sitting on Thursday, January 23, 2025, following communication from the NDC’s National Secretariat about the reshuffle of its Parliamentary front bench.
The newly constituted front bench of the NDC in Parliament includes: Hon. Mahama Ayariga, MP for Bawku Central (Majority Leader); Hon. Ricket Hagan, MP for Cape Coast South (Deputy Majority Leader); Hon. Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, MP for South Dayi (Majority Chief Whip); Hon. Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe-Ghansah, MP for Ada (First Deputy Majority Whip); Hon. Richard Acheampong, MP for Bia East (Second Deputy Majority Whip).
In his acceptance speech, Hon. Mahama Ayariga pledged to lead with responsibility, inclusivity, and accountability.
“As President John Dramani Mahama has said, these overwhelming numbers will not be abused. Even though we are an overwhelming Majority, we will strive for inclusivity, consensus building, and deeply uphold the principles of probity and accountability in the fulfillment of the dreams of our founding fathers,” Hon. Ayariga affirmed.
Mr Ayariga emphasised the importance of constructive dialogue and mutual respect in overcoming challenges.
“The road ahead will not be without challenges, but I am confident that together, through constructive dialogue and mutual respect, we can overcome any obstacles and deliver on our collective vision,” he stated.
The Majority Leader also highlighted the trust Ghanaians have placed in their leaders and urged his colleagues to remain steadfast in their commitment to serve.
He noted, “Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to the people of Ghana. Their trust must inspire our actions and guide our decisions.”
Mr Ayariga further stressed the significance of building a nation that aligns with the aspirations of its citizens.
“It is for them that we will build a prosperous, united, and democratic Ghana,” he added, reiterating the responsibility of Parliament to uphold the interests of the people.
The new leadership signals a strategic approach by the NDC to drive its legislative agenda while fostering collaboration and consensus in Parliament.
Source: Clement Akoloh||parliamentnews360.com
[post_date_unix] => 1737651770 [post_date] => January 23, 2025 [post_modified] => January 23, 2025 [post_author_url] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/author/parliamentnews360/ [post_author_name] => Clement Akoloh [post_author_email] => senaakoloh@gmail.com [post_comments_no] => 0 [post_comments_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/mahama-ayariga-takes-over-as-majority-leader-in-parliament/#respond [post_theme_settings] => Array ( ) ) [2020] => Array ( [post_id] => 2020 [post_type] => post [has_post_thumbnail] => 1 [post_thumbnail_id] => 2021 [post_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/kt-hammond-initiates-defamation-suit-against-captain-smart-and-media-general/ [post_title] => KT Hammond Initiates Defamation Suit Against Captain Smart and Media General [post_title_attribute] => KT Hammond Initiates Defamation Suit Against Captain Smart and Media General [post_excerpt] => The former Member of Parliament for Adansi Asokwa and erstwhile Minister of Trade and Industry, Alhaji Kwabena Tahir Hammond (KT Hammond), has filed a defamation lawsuit at the Accra High Court against popular media personality Blessed Godsbrian Smart, known as Captain Smart, and his employers, Media General. [post_content] =>The former Member of Parliament for Adansi Asokwa and erstwhile Minister of Trade and Industry, Alhaji Kwabena Tahir Hammond (KT Hammond), has filed a defamation lawsuit at the Accra High Court against popular media personality Blessed Godsbrian Smart, known as Captain Smart, and his employers, Media General.
A writ of summons issued on January 16, 2025, and seen by ParliamentNews360, requires the defendants to respond within eight days or risk judgment being entered against them in their absence.
Allegations of Defamation
In the statement of claim, Mr. Hammond alleges that Captain Smart and Media General caused harm to his reputation through remarks made on their program “Ghana Decides 2024 – Election Command Center – Abatoɔ Asodɛɛ” broadcasted on December 9, 2024.
The contentious statements, reportedly attributed to Mr. Hammond, suggest he made ethnically charged remarks following his loss in the 2024 elections. The former MP is alleged to have said:
“How can an Ewe person unseat me? Eh, eh? Why would an Ewe person be the one to take the seat from me in an Ashanti township?”
The plaintiff argues that the publication and subsequent widespread republication of these remarks portrayed him as tribalistic and intolerant, causing severe damage to his character, reputation, and public standing.
Demands from the Court
Mr. Hammond, through his legal representatives, seeks the following reliefs:
- Damages: Including special, aggravated, and exemplary damages for libel.
- Injunction: A restraining order preventing the defendants from further publishing or republishing the alleged defamatory statements.
- Public Retraction and Apology: An order compelling the defendants to retract the statements and issue an apology with equivalent prominence, archived on all their media platforms, including TV, radio, and social media channels.
- Removal of Content: The removal of the defamatory content and its republications from all media and internet platforms.
- Costs: Compensation for costs incurred in prosecuting the case.
- Other Reliefs: Any additional orders the court deems appropriate.
Background
Mr. Hammond had, on December 16, 2024, through his lawyers, demanded a retraction and apology from Captain Smart and Media General for their alleged remarks. The defendants are yet to publicly respond to the allegations or the court summons.
The case highlights ongoing debates about media responsibility, political accountability, and the boundaries of free speech in Ghana’s democratic space.
Source: Clement Akoloh/parliamentnews360.com
[post_date_unix] => 1737137800 [post_date] => January 17, 2025 [post_modified] => January 17, 2025 [post_author_url] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/author/parliamentnews360/ [post_author_name] => Clement Akoloh [post_author_email] => senaakoloh@gmail.com [post_comments_no] => 0 [post_comments_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/kt-hammond-initiates-defamation-suit-against-captain-smart-and-media-general/#respond [post_theme_settings] => Array ( ) ) [2012] => Array ( [post_id] => 2012 [post_type] => post [has_post_thumbnail] => 1 [post_thumbnail_id] => 2018 [post_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/ghanaminority-group-raises-concerns-over-ministerial-vetting-process/ [post_title] => Ghana:Minority Group Raises Concerns Over Ministerial Vetting Process [post_title_attribute] => Ghana:Minority Group Raises Concerns Over Ministerial Vetting Process [post_excerpt] => The Minority Caucus in Parliament, composed of members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has raised serious concerns about irregularities during the vetting of ministerial nominees for the Government of President John Dramani Mahama. [post_content] =>The Minority Caucus in Parliament, composed of members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has raised serious concerns about irregularities during the vetting of ministerial nominees for the Government of President John Dramani Mahama.
The Appointments Committee recently concluded the vetting of the first batch of nominees, which included Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister-Designate for Finance; John Abdulai Jinapor, Minister-Designate for Energy and Green Revolution; and Dr. Dominic Ayine, Minister-Designate for Justice and Attorney General. The Committee is expected to submit its report to the House for consideration.
At a press conference held in Parliament on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, Dr. Gideon Boako, addressing the media on behalf of the Minority, accused the Chairman of the Appointments Committee of partisanship and denying Minority members the opportunity to thoroughly scrutinize the nominees.
“Members of the committee were shouted at by the Chairman. You all witnessed how the Member for Atiwa East, Hon. Abena Osei-Asare, was shouted at in an attempt to protect the nominees. The Chairman denied legitimate members of the committee the opportunity to ask relevant questions and railroaded the nominees through the process,” Dr. Boako stated.
Concerns About Nominees’ Performance
The Minority also expressed dissatisfaction with the responses provided by the nominees, describing their answers as evasive and lacking clarity.
On Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister-Designate for Finance, Dr. Boako criticized his inability to provide assurances on key policy issues. “How can a finance minister-designate look into the faces of parents and young Ghanaian students and say that because he is not yet the Minister, he cannot answer whether the pledge by President Mahama to pay for their fees will be honored? This is a clear way of telling our tertiary students that the NDC party deceived them into voting for them,” he remarked.
The performance of John Abdulai Jinapor, Minister-Designate for Energy and Green Revolution, also came under scrutiny. According to the Minority, the nominee failed to address critical concerns about the Gold for Oil policy, which he had previously described as a “scam.”
“Firstly, when questioned about his previous criticism of the policy, the nominee remained steadfast in his stance, showing no remorse. He stated that he would review the policy, but we must ask: how does one review a scam? His lack of accountability is troubling, especially as he failed to provide viable solutions to the persistent issue of access to foreign exchange for petroleum imports, a matter that directly impacts fuel pricing. We face a significant increase in petroleum prices, ultimately burdening the public with higher costs,” Dr. Boako said.
The Minority also raised concerns about Dr. Dominic Ayine, Minister-Designate for Justice and Attorney General, alleging a conflict of interest. “His law firm and he personally are representing companies that have filed arbitration claims in excess of $500 million. Can Ghanaians go to sleep believing that their money will be safe and that it will not be stolen through the payment of dubious judgment debts, as we saw in the Wayome case?” they questioned.
The Member of Parliament for Suame, Lawyer John Darko expressed concern about the Minister Designate’s justification for the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL), a team put together by the NDC to lead investigations into suspected corrupt acts against the state. He insists the team does not have any legal basis to invite people to appear before it. He therefore advised the NPP Members not honour any invitation from the ORAL team.
The Minority Caucus has called for greater transparency and impartiality in the vetting process to ensure nominees are thoroughly vetted for the positions they seek to occupy.
Source: Clement Akoloh/ parliamentnews360.com
[post_date_unix] => 1736958565 [post_date] => January 15, 2025 [post_modified] => January 15, 2025 [post_author_url] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/author/parliamentnews360/ [post_author_name] => Clement Akoloh [post_author_email] => senaakoloh@gmail.com [post_comments_no] => 0 [post_comments_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/ghanaminority-group-raises-concerns-over-ministerial-vetting-process/#respond [post_theme_settings] => Array ( ) ) [2008] => Array ( [post_id] => 2008 [post_type] => post [has_post_thumbnail] => 1 [post_thumbnail_id] => 2009 [post_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/ghana-minority-caucus-accuses-ndc-for-wave-of-post-election-violence-and-lawlessness/ [post_title] => Ghana: Minority Caucus Accuses NDC for Wave of Post-Election Violence and Lawlessness [post_title_attribute] => Ghana: Minority Caucus Accuses NDC for Wave of Post-Election Violence and Lawlessness [post_excerpt] => The Minority Caucus in Ghana’s Parliament has expressed grave concerns over what they describe as a surge in thuggery, violence, and lawlessness across the nation following the 2024 presidential elections. Addressing the media at a press conference, the Caucus condemned the actions of individuals alleged to be loyalists of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), accusing them of orchestrating attacks on public institutions and civil servants. [post_content] =>Accra, Ghana – The Minority Caucus in Ghana’s Parliament has expressed grave concerns over what they describe as a surge in thuggery, violence, and lawlessness across the nation following the 2024 presidential elections. Addressing the media at a press conference, the Caucus condemned the actions of individuals alleged to be loyalists of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), accusing them of orchestrating attacks on public institutions and civil servants.
The Minority highlighted incidents in Tema, Koforidua, and other parts of the country where NDC supporters reportedly stormed and took control of government facilities, including the Tema Port, Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), and offices of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), among others. They decried these acts as unlawful and dangerous to the country’s democratic values.
“Ghana, a beacon of democracy, is facing an unprecedented assault on the principles and institutions that underpin our Republic,” the statement read, citing concerns about partisan control of state institutions and threats to public servants.
The Caucus linked the unrest to President John Mahama's establishment of the "Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL)" Committee before his inauguration, describing it as unconstitutional and a signal that the rule of law could be undermined for partisan objectives. They argued that the rhetoric of this committee has emboldened party loyalists to act outside the law.
Among the most troubling developments cited were attacks on judicial officers, vandalism of public officials' homes, and intimidation of civil servants, with many forced to flee their workplaces. The Minority warned that such acts could erode public trust in governance and democratic institutions.
Calling for decisive action, the Minority urged President Mahama to condemn the violence and direct law enforcement agencies to restore order. “Leadership is about action, not silence. Ghana is not a revolutionary state; it is a constitutional democracy,” they emphasized.
They also appealed to security agencies to remain impartial and enforce the law without fear or favor, ensuring that perpetrators face justice regardless of political affiliations.
The Minority concluded with a call for unity, urging all Ghanaians to safeguard the country’s democracy against fear and lawlessness.
Source: Clement Akoloh||parliamentnews360.com
[post_date_unix] => 1736450945 [post_date] => January 9, 2025 [post_modified] => January 9, 2025 [post_author_url] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/author/parliamentnews360/ [post_author_name] => Clement Akoloh [post_author_email] => senaakoloh@gmail.com [post_comments_no] => 0 [post_comments_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/ghana-minority-caucus-accuses-ndc-for-wave-of-post-election-violence-and-lawlessness/#respond [post_theme_settings] => Array ( ) ) [2000] => Array ( [post_id] => 2000 [post_type] => post [has_post_thumbnail] => 1 [post_thumbnail_id] => 2003 [post_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/govt-expenditure-in-limbo-as-parliament-fails-to-approve-2025-1st-quarter-budget/ [post_title] => State Expenditure in Limbo as Govt Fails to Present 2025 1st Quarter Budget for Parliamentary Approval [post_title_attribute] => State Expenditure in Limbo as Govt Fails to Present 2025 1st Quarter Budget for Parliamentary Approval [post_excerpt] => Government expenditure for the first quarter of 2025 hangs in the balance as Parliament fails to approve the Expenditure on Account mandated under Article 180 of the 1992 Constitution. [post_content] =>Accra, Ghana – Government expenditure for the first quarter of 2025 hangs in the balance as Parliament fails to approve the Expenditure on Account mandated under Article 180 of the 1992 Constitution.
The stalemate follows the indefinite adjournment of Parliament on Friday, December 18, 2024, by Speaker Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, with no sign of progress on the budget proposal.
The impasse has sparked a blame game between the Majority and Minority leadership, each accusing the other of derailing the constitutional process meant to ensure financial continuity during election-related transitions.
Speaking to the press shortly after Parliament’s adjournment, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority Leader, criticized the Akufo-Addo-led government for failing to fulfill its constitutional obligation to present the expenditure proposal in advance of appropriation.
“The NPP government has failed to comply with Article 180 of the Constitution to make interim financial provisions for the first quarter of 2025,” he said. “In the spirit of good transition, it was expected that the outgoing President would act in good faith and submit the proposal to Parliament.”
Dr. Forson assured Ghanaians that the incoming NDC government, expected to take office on January 7, 2025, would prioritize the approval of the expenditure plan. “There is no cause for alarm. The Vice President can present the proposal to this House immediately after swearing-in, and Parliament will expedite the process to ensure public servants are not affected,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Majority Leader, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo Markin, refuted the Minority’s claims, accusing them of obstructing government business since November.
“We are ready to proceed with the Expenditure on Account. It is the lawless NDC Minority that has been obstructing the process,” Afenyo Markin stated during a press conference. “If the Speaker reconvenes Parliament before December 31, we will ensure this important business is addressed.”
The failure to approve the budget raises significant concerns about the government’s ability to meet its financial obligations in the first quarter of 2025, including funding essential public services and ensuring a smooth political transition.
Article 180 of the Constitution requires the government to present an Expenditure on Account when a full Appropriation Act will not take effect by the beginning of the financial year. With less than two weeks left in the year, the absence of a budget casts doubt on Ghana’s fiscal stability heading into 2025.
Observers are urging Parliament to reconvene swiftly to prevent disruptions to public service delivery and maintain confidence in Ghana’s governance processes.
Source: Clement Apologize//parliamentnews360.com
[post_date_unix] => 1734727680 [post_date] => December 20, 2024 [post_modified] => December 21, 2024 [post_author_url] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/author/parliamentnews360/ [post_author_name] => Clement Akoloh [post_author_email] => senaakoloh@gmail.com [post_comments_no] => 0 [post_comments_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/govt-expenditure-in-limbo-as-parliament-fails-to-approve-2025-1st-quarter-budget/#respond [post_theme_settings] => Array ( ) ) [1997] => Array ( [post_id] => 1997 [post_type] => post [has_post_thumbnail] => 1 [post_thumbnail_id] => 1998 [post_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/k-t-hammond-expresses-distress-over-alleged-defamatory-remarks-by-captain-smart/ [post_title] => K.T. Hammond Expresses Distress Over Alleged Defamatory Remarks by Captain Smart [post_title_attribute] => K.T. Hammond Expresses Distress Over Alleged Defamatory Remarks by Captain Smart [post_excerpt] => The Member of Parliament for Adansi Asokwa, Hon. Kobina Tahir Hammond, has expressed considerable distress and embarrassment over what he describes as false and defamatory remarks attributed to him by popular broadcaster Blessed Godsbrain Smart, also known as Captain Smart. [post_content] =>The Member of Parliament for Adansi Asokwa, Hon. Kobina Tahir Hammond, has expressed considerable distress and embarrassment over what he describes as false and defamatory remarks attributed to him by popular broadcaster Blessed Godsbrain Smart, also known as Captain Smart.
In a letter addressed to Media General GH Ltd, dated December 16, 2024, Mr. Hammond’s lawyer, Kweku Y. Paintsil, highlighted the emotional and reputational damage caused by the claims, which stem from a viral social media video. The video purportedly shows Mr. Hammond in an agitated state outside his residence, with a commentary by Captain Smart accusing him of making tribalistic remarks about an “Ewe person” contesting for a parliamentary seat in the Ashanti Region.
The MP has categorically denied the claims, emphasizing that they are untrue and have subjected him to significant public scrutiny and humiliation. According to the letter, the allegations have caused “considerable distress and embarrassment” to Mr. Hammond, tarnishing his reputation as a public figure.
“Our client’s attention has been drawn to a viral, two-in-one streaming video clip circulating on social media, with one part of the video muted and showing our client in an agitated mood and surrounded by a host of individuals within the outer confines of his residence. However, the related second video clip, on top of the first video clip, shows you and another gentleman (possibly a co-host of your radio show) doing a running commentary or voice-over in which the following bigoted and tribal statement was attributed to our client,” the letter stated.
The letter demands a full public retraction and apology from Captain Smart, approved by Mr. Hammond’s legal team, as well as substantial compensation for the damage caused.
“In the circumstance, our client requires from you as a matter of urgency a full and unequivocal public retraction and apology in terms to be approved by us, and an undertaking not to repeat these allegations.
“We have also advised him that he is entitled to substantial compensation for the injury to his reputation and feelings,” the letter added.
Mr. Hammond’s legal team has set a deadline of December 18, 2024, for Captain Smart to comply with the demands, failing which legal action will be initiated.
This incident underscores the emotional and professional toll that unverified claims can have on public officials, particularly in the age of viral social media content. Mr. Hammond’s legal response signals his determination to protect his reputation and seek redress for the distress caused.
[post_date_unix] => 1734637872 [post_date] => December 19, 2024 [post_modified] => December 19, 2024 [post_author_url] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/author/parliamentnews360/ [post_author_name] => Clement Akoloh [post_author_email] => senaakoloh@gmail.com [post_comments_no] => 0 [post_comments_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/k-t-hammond-expresses-distress-over-alleged-defamatory-remarks-by-captain-smart/#respond [post_theme_settings] => Array ( ) ) [1993] => Array ( [post_id] => 1993 [post_type] => post [has_post_thumbnail] => 1 [post_thumbnail_id] => 1995 [post_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/video-joe-wise-back-afenyo-markin-to-lead-npp-in-opposition/ [post_title] => VIDEO: Joe Wise Back Afenyo Markin to Lead NPP in Opposition [post_title_attribute] => VIDEO: Joe Wise Back Afenyo Markin to Lead NPP in Opposition [post_excerpt] => Speaking to the Parliamentary Press Corps during the ongoing 7th Meeting of the Fourth Republic’s 8th Parliament on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, Hon. Osei Owusu, who is also the outgoing Member of Parliament for Bekwai, stressed the importance of experience and continuity in leadership. [post_content] =>Speaking to the Parliamentary Press Corps during the ongoing 7th Meeting of the Fourth Republic’s 8th Parliament on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, Hon. Osei Owusu, who is also the outgoing Member of Parliament for Bekwai, stressed the importance of experience and continuity in leadership.
[post_date_unix] => 1734557508 [post_date] => December 18, 2024 [post_modified] => December 18, 2024 [post_author_url] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/author/parliamentnews360/ [post_author_name] => Clement Akoloh [post_author_email] => senaakoloh@gmail.com [post_comments_no] => 0 [post_comments_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/video-joe-wise-back-afenyo-markin-to-lead-npp-in-opposition/#respond [post_theme_settings] => Array ( ) ) [1987] => Array ( [post_id] => 1987 [post_type] => post [has_post_thumbnail] => 1 [post_thumbnail_id] => 1988 [post_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/joe-wise-backs-afenyo-markin-as-best-fit-to-lead-npp-caucus-in-opposition/ [post_title] => Joe Wise Backs Afenyo Markin as Best Fit to Lead NPP Caucus in Opposition [post_title_attribute] => Joe Wise Backs Afenyo Markin as Best Fit to Lead NPP Caucus in Opposition [post_excerpt] => The outgoing First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Joseph Osei Owusu, has endorsed Hon. Alexander Kwamena Afenyo Markin as the most suitable candidate to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Caucus in the 9th Parliament. [post_content] =>The outgoing First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Joseph Osei Owusu, has endorsed Hon. Alexander Kwamena Afenyo Markin as the most suitable candidate to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Caucus in the 9th Parliament.
Speaking to the Parliamentary Press Corps during the ongoing 7th Meeting of the Fourth Republic’s 8th Parliament on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, Hon. Osei Owusu, who is also the outgoing Member of Parliament for Bekwai, stressed the importance of experience and continuity in leadership.
With the National Democratic Congress (NDC) securing a majority of the 276 parliamentary seats declared so far—claiming about 185 seats, though some are disputed—Hon. Osei Owusu believes the next Parliament will demand resolute and experienced leadership from the NPP in opposition.
“I am not a member of the 9th Parliament and nobody has asked me to do anything for the 9th Parliament. But just as a long-term member who has worked in the House, I strongly believe in longevity and experience,” he noted.
Citing historical examples, he pointed to the success of Hon. Osei Kyei Mensah-Bonsu, the outgoing Majority Leader, who worked his way through the ranks, beginning as Chief Whip before leading the NPP Caucus.
“Longevity brings experience and clarity. From our own actions and inactions, you can tell that when Hon. Kyei was the Minority Leader, he stood out very clearly, but it did not happen by accident,” Joe Wise explained.
He argued that Hon. Afenyo Markin’s ongoing tenure has provided him with the requisite knowledge and skills to take on the challenges of the 9th Parliament, especially given the NPP’s projected position in opposition.
“My view is that, let Afenyo Markin continue. He started, and there is nobody who has had that experience before him except Hon. Osei Kyei Mensah-Bonsu, and he is leaving Parliament. We need someone who is strong-headed and willing to stand the heat,” Joe Wise added.
Acknowledging the controversies surrounding Hon. Afenyo Markin, he emphasized that the nature of the next Parliament, with the NPP holding an estimated 91 seats, would require a leader with resilience and a strong voice to represent the party effectively in and out of the Chamber.
“At best, we will get 91 seats, and we cannot change any decision. But our voices must be very loudly heard in and out of the Chamber. What it requires is somebody who is strong-headed and willing to stand the heat,” he stated.
Hon. Alexander Kwamena Afenyo Markin, the MP for Effutu, has been a central figure in the 8th Parliament, serving as the Deputy Majority Leader. His leadership style has often been in the spotlight, but he remains a key player in the NPP's parliamentary strategy.
As the NPP prepares for life in opposition in the 9th Parliament, Hon. Osei Owusu’s endorsement of Afenyo Markin underscores the need for experienced leadership to navigate the complex parliamentary dynamics ahead.
Source: Clement Akoloh||parliamentnews360.com
[post_date_unix] => 1734550568 [post_date] => December 18, 2024 [post_modified] => December 18, 2024 [post_author_url] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/author/parliamentnews360/ [post_author_name] => Clement Akoloh [post_author_email] => senaakoloh@gmail.com [post_comments_no] => 0 [post_comments_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/joe-wise-backs-afenyo-markin-as-best-fit-to-lead-npp-caucus-in-opposition/#respond [post_theme_settings] => Array ( ) ) ) [loop_pagination] => Array ( [pagenavi_options] => Array ( [pages_text] => Page %CURRENT_PAGE% of %TOTAL_PAGES% [current_text] => %PAGE_NUMBER% [page_text] => %PAGE_NUMBER% [first_text] => 1 [last_text] => %TOTAL_PAGES% [next_text] => [prev_text] => [dotright_text] => ... [dotleft_text] => ... [num_pages] => 3 [always_show] => 1 ) [paged] => 1 [max_page] => 40 [start_page] => 1 [end_page] => 3 [pages_to_show] => 3 [previous_posts_link] => [next_posts_link] => ) [category_id] => 51 )
