Impasse in Parliament: Afenyo-Markin’s approach ‘too combative’ — Prof. Martin Akotey
A Political Sociologist at Valley View University, Professor Martin Akotey has expressed concerns over the leadership style of Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Majority Leader leader in Parliament. According to Prof. Akotey, Afenyo-Markin’s approach to conducting government business in the chamber is “too combative” and lacks the spirit of compromise needed to effectively manage parliamentary feud.
Reflecting on past parliamentary leadership, Prof. Akotey praised former Majority Leader, Osei KyeiMensah-Bonsu, for a more cooperative approach, which he believes helped in navigating delicate situations. “Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu was doing a much better job than him [Afenyo-Markin]. Let’s not forget it’s the same individuals. I see the posturing of the leader now is too combative,” Prof. Akotey shared in an interview on Luv FM, adding that a more collaborative stance could help reduce tensions.
The professor noted that Afenyo-Markin should adopt a style that fosters unity, especially amid the current parliamentary deadlock. “I am not happy about their posturing. As a leader, although you belong to a political party, you want things to be done especially for you in government. You want to get the support of the opposition to have programs work or succeed. Your posturing shouldn’t be antagonist but welcoming,” he advised.
Parliament has been adjourned indefinitely due to an unresolved dispute between the two caucuses on which side holds the Majority, following Speaker Alban Bagbin’s recent declaration of four seats as vacant. This decision, however, was overturned by the Supreme Court following Afenyo-Markin’s ex-parte motion against the Speaker’s ruling. Consequently, parliamentary proceedings have reached a stalemate, and both sides continue to battle for superiority.
By: Eric Nana Yaw Kwafo
