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Mon, 13 Jan 2025 Politics

Ministerial vetting: You can’t tell Mahama what to do — Ayariga shuts Minority Leader

Mahama Ayariga left and Minority Leader, Afenyo-MarkinMahama Ayariga [left] and Minority Leader, Afenyo-Markin

The ongoing vetting of ministerial nominees presented by President John Dramani Mahama turned contentious on Monday, January 13, 2025 as Bawku Central MP Mahama Ayariga criticized Minority Leader Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin for questioning the president’s procedural compliance.

During the vetting of Finance Minister-designate Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Afenyo-Markin argued that President Mahama had bypassed proper protocols in submitting his nominations to Parliament.

He claimed the communication, which was signed by the Secretary to the President, should have been signed directly by the President, the Vice President, or an authorized minister, in line with Standing Order 65(1).

“...before we examine the nominees, we must address a procedural misstep that casts doubt on this process’ integrity. The communication should bear the president’s signature or that of an authorized official, as per the standing orders,” Afenyo-Markin asserted.

In reaction, Ayariga dismissed the Minority Leader’s argument, asserting that he had no authority to dictate how the President handles his appointments.

Ayariga criticized Afenyo-Markin for using the vetting platform to air grievances more suitable for a press conference.

“For the Minority Leader to use this platform to denigrate the presidency or direct the president on his ministerial nominations is not appropriate. For instance, you cannot be directing the president as to how and when he makes his nominations for ministerial appointments,” Ayariga stated.

Ayariga added, "The president did say that the cabinet will be formed within a short period upon coming into office. But you have decided that it should have been from the date of the declaration of results. I mean, that is not the promise that was made by the president. You can have your opinion on the matter, but please, you can express it outside at the press conference."

He further noted that parliamentary rules, including the standing orders, have been challenged and nullified by recent Supreme Court rulings, making them less rigid than implied.

Afenyo-Markin, however, rejected the notion that his comments undermined the presidency, defending his right to question procedures and uphold parliamentary standards.

Gideon Afful Amoako
Gideon Afful Amoako

A journalist passionate about social issues, politics and current affairs.Page: gideon-afful-amoako

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