The Majority Leader in Parliament, Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has received a stern warning from the President of the Professional Progressive Forum, Ambassador Sam Pee Yalley. Yalley cautioned Afenyo-Markin against using unguarded statements to disparage the National Democratic Congress’ running mate, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang. Yalley emphasized the need for respect toward Opoku-Agyemang, highlighting her esteemed background in academia, her global contributions to education, and her tenure as a vice chancellor. He urged Afenyo-Markin to exercise circumspection in public discourse to maintain decency and decorum.
Ambassador Sam Pee Yalley conveyed this message during an appearance on the Simpieso political talk show on Ahotor 92.3 FM, hosted by Emmanuel Amartey (Alaska De Don). Yalley also expressed the New Patriotic Party’s desire for a capable and respected woman like Opoku-Agyemang to counterbalance the perceived shortcomings of the current government over the past seven years.
In a separate development, chaos erupted in Parliament when Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin launched a verbal attack on Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the running mate of John Mahama.
Afenyo-Markin criticized Opoku-Agyemang for purportedly failing to fulfill her responsibilities despite holding significant positions in the previous government. He contended that her selection as running mate reflected poorly on the NDC, portraying them as clinging to outdated approaches.
His remarks, made during the concluding debate on the State of the Nation Address on March 11, drew strong reactions from the NDC, who demanded that Afenyo-Markin retract his statements. The Minority caucus, visibly displeased, banged tables in protest, with Banda MP Ibrahim Ahmed insisting on an apology for the personal attack on Opoku-Agyemang.
Ahmed highlighted the irony of criticizing Opoku-Agyemang’s age while supporting President Akufo-Addo, who is also over 70 years old. Until an apology is issued, the NDC vowed not to relent in their stance.
