Alexander Afenyo-Markin
The Minority in Parliament has demanded that the government immediately submit its recent agreement with the United States on the repatriation of Ghanaian deportees to Parliament for scrutiny and ratification, in line with Article 75 of the 1992 Constitution.
The call came from Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin during the opening session of Parliament’s Third Meeting of the First Session, where he addressed a wide range of national and international issues.
“During the recess, a foreign policy development came to light regarding an agreement between the Government of Ghana and the United States to accept some deportees. The agreement of such magnitude, in our view, should be subject to parliamentary scrutiny,” he asserted.
According to the Minority Leader, bypassing Parliament in matters of foreign policy not only breaches constitutional procedure but also undermines Ghana’s sovereignty.
“Ghana’s foreign policy must never be conducted in secrecy, nor should we compromise our sovereignty for expedience,” he warned.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin said the Minority expected the government to ensure that “any international agreement reflects our values and commands the confidence of the Ghanaian people.”
He called for an open, bipartisan debate on how Ghana engages in international cooperation, adding that transparency was essential to preserving national dignity. “We urge the government to always place Ghana’s dignity first,” he said.
In the same address, the Minority Leader reflected on the state of the nation’s governance, expressing optimism that Ghana could overcome its current challenges through renewed leadership and national unity.
“Ghana’s story is one of triumphs achieved through visionary leadership and the indomitable spirit of our people,” he said, noting that the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration had pursued transformative policies that delivered tangible progress.
He cited the Free Senior High School programme, One District One Factory initiative, and expansion of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) education as landmark achievements that improved access to education, created jobs, and spurred industrial growth.
“Over 13,000 kilometres of roads were constructed, and 169 factories were established nationwide, creating nearly 170,000 jobs for citizens,” Mr. Afenyo-Markin said.
He urged the current administration to move beyond rhetoric and implement practical measures to fulfil its economic promises, especially the much-publicised 24-Hour Economy initiative.
“Enough of the talk. We want the reality to be seen on the streets of Accra,” he stated.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin further reassured Ghanaians that the Minority, though only 87 strong, remained committed to its constitutional duty of oversight.
“We may be few, but we are a mighty few. We will continue to be the voice and the shield of the people in this august House,” he declared.
Drawing inspiration from Speaker Alban Bagbin’s past leadership during his party’s time in opposition, the Minority Leader expressed confidence that his side could regain majority status in the next election cycle.
“When your party lost in 2000, you led a charge with fewer numbers and made progress. We are inspired by that same dream – that come 2028, the Minority will be the Majority,” he said to applause from his side of the chamber.
He ended on a note of unity and hope, saying, “Let us all be reminded by [former] President Akufo-Addo’s words: to be citizens, not spectators. Ghana will prevail if we serve with discipline, hard work, and faith in God.”
By Ernest Kofi Adu, Parliament House