We Won’t Fight the NDC in Parliament, The Constitution is Our Weapon – Afenyo-Markin

Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has quelled rumors of a potential confrontation in Parliament as it prepares to reconvene on Tuesday, October 22.

He emphasized that if tensions rise, members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) are ready to exit rather than engage in conflict.

This statement follows a press conference by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), where they announced their intention to assume control of the Majority side in light of Speaker Alban Bagbin’s recent ruling that declared four parliamentary seats vacant.

The NDC plans to take immediate action on various legislative matters, including amendments to the Communication Tax (e-levy) and the appointment of a new Second Deputy Speaker.

In an interview on October 21, Afenyo-Markin stressed that the NPP is fully aware of the ongoing legal issues surrounding the parliamentary situation. The NPP has sought clarification from the Supreme Court regarding the Speaker’s ruling, which has issued a directive that is set to be served in Parliament.

Afenyo-Markin remarked, “As far as we are concerned, the Supreme Court has issued a directive, and Parliament will be served. If the need arises, we will simply walk out.” His comments reflect the NPP’s commitment to adhering to the Court’s orders instead of engaging in political drama.

The upcoming session has sparked considerable public interest due to the Speaker’s controversial decision, which places the NDC at 136 seats, granting them the majority, compared to the NPP’s 135.

This ruling, along with the Supreme Court’s involvement, has ignited a constitutional debate over the balance of power in Parliament and the judiciary’s role in parliamentary affairs.

Despite the mounting tensions, Afenyo-Markin’s statement indicates that the NPP seeks to avoid conflict by prioritizing the legal process.