Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has downplayed expectations of a potential confrontation in Parliament when the House reconvenes on Tuesday, October 22. He emphasized that if tensions rise, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) majority side is prepared to walk out rather than engage in any direct conflict.
This follows a press conference held by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) on Sunday, where they declared their intention to take control of the Majority side of Parliament, citing Speaker Alban Bagbin’s recent ruling that declared four parliamentary seats vacant. The NDC signaled plans to occupy the Majority side and take immediate action on several key issues, including amendments to the Communication Tax (e-levy) and appointing a new Second Deputy Speaker.
Speaking on Peace FM on Monday, October 21, Afenyo-Markin, the MP for Effutu, acknowledged the ongoing legal battle over the parliamentary impasse. He noted that the NPP had already sought an interpretation from the Supreme Court regarding the Speaker’s ruling, which resulted in a court directive.
Afenyo-Markin mentioned that a Supreme Court bailiff is expected to serve Parliament with the Court’s orders on Monday.
“As far as we are concerned, the Supreme Court has issued a directive, and Parliament will be served. If necessary, we will simply walk out,” Afenyo-Markin said, stressing that the NPP is committed to following the Court’s orders rather than engaging in political theatrics.
The upcoming session has drawn significant public attention due to the Speaker’s controversial ruling, which left the NDC with 136 seats, positioning them as the majority, while the NPP holds 135 seats. This has sparked a constitutional debate about the balance of power in Parliament and the judiciary’s role in parliamentary matters.
Despite the mounting tensions, Afenyo-Markin’s remarks indicate that the NPP intends to avoid conflict by adhering to the legal process.