Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has accused the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government of "executive incompetence, majority tyranny, and a timid judiciary." He stated these issues are "suffocating the faith of citizens in democracy." Mr. Afenyo-Markin delivered these remarks during his closing statement at the end of the Second Meeting of the Second Session of the Ninth Parliament on Friday, July 31.
The Minority Leader, who also serves as the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Effutu, expressed deep concern over the government's handling of the economy. He specifically criticised the Mid-Year Review of the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy, presented by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson on July 23. Mr. Afenyo-Markin alleged discrepancies in inflation figures and expenditure totals within the budget document, citing concerns from civil society analyst Dr. Adu Owusu Sarkodie.
These criticisms come at a time when Ghana's economy faces persistent challenges, including managing public debt and stabilising the Ghana cedi. The accuracy and consistency of fiscal data are crucial for investor confidence and effective economic planning. Previous administrations have also faced scrutiny over budget transparency, making this a recurring theme in Ghana's political discourse. The government's ability to address these concerns will be vital for maintaining economic stability and public trust.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin urged the Finance Minister to provide clarification and ensure consistency in the presentation of fiscal data. He stated that "Our Republic, under this NDC administration, is not in safe hands." This call for transparency highlights the importance of reliable economic indicators for both domestic and international stakeholders.
A significant portion of his address focused on the passage of the Bill establishing district and regional tribunals on July 16. The Minority staged a walkout during this process. Mr. Afenyo-Markin argued that the legislation contradicts recommendations by the Constitutional Review Committee, chaired by Professor H. Kwasi Prempeh, which proposed abolishing tribunals. He expressed concern that the new law could erode public confidence in the justice system and appealed to President John Dramani Mahama not to assent to the Bill.
The Minority Leader also raised concerns about alleged unfair targeting of NPP members by state institutions. He claimed unequal treatment in the administration of justice. He cited the acquittal of former Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC) Chief Executive Officer, Madam Sedina Tamakloe, contrasting it with the prosecution of Mr. Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Wontumi, the NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman. Mr. Afenyo-Markin further alleged the suspension of the computerised case allocation system and expedited court procedures for opposition figures.
Beyond economic and judicial matters, Mr. Afenyo-Markin questioned the government's response to the June 29 floods and fire outbreak. The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) reported 34 deaths and six missing persons from the disaster. He called for officials involved in pre-rains preparedness to account for their actions before the appropriate parliamentary committee. He also sought parliamentary inquiries into a military helicopter crash and a Ghana Armed Forces recruitment exercise where six young women reportedly died.
On illegal mining, known as galamsey, Mr. Afenyo-Markin referenced comments attributed to President Mahama regarding the involvement of persons associated with the governing party. He questioned the absence of subsequent investigations into these claims. The Minority Leader also announced the introduction of a private member’s bill. This bill seeks to repeal Sections 207 and 208 of the Criminal Offences Act, which deal with criminal libel and the publication of false news. This move aims to protect freedom of expression and prevent imprisonment for critical views.
He also touched on bail conditions, alleging that excessive bail requirements have effectively deprived accused persons of their liberty in some instances. Mr. Afenyo-Markin concluded by reaffirming the Minority Caucus’ commitment to parliamentary oversight and accountability. The President's decision on the tribunal bill will be a key indicator of the government's approach to judicial reform and political consensus. The ongoing scrutiny of economic figures will also shape public perception and market reactions in the coming months.