Communications Officer of PN Africa, Clement Akoloh, has raised concerns over the escalating tensions between the Chairman of Parliament’s Appointments Committee, Bernard Ahiafor, and the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin.
Speaking on Prime News on ABC News GH, Akoloh described the ongoing friction between the two as an “ego problem,” warning that their confrontations could undermine the credibility of the vetting process.
“We need to be concerned about the way the two men at the top are going at each other. It is an ego problem,” he stated.
He further noted that minor disagreements, which should not lead to controversy, are now turning into heated exchanges.
His comments follow a dramatic exchange during the vetting of Deputy Attorney-General and Minister for Justice-designate, Justice Srem-Sai, on February 26.
During the session, Mr. Afenyo-Markin requested that the nominee demonstrate the Likpe dance, a traditional performance from the Volta Region.
This request was immediately overruled by Chairman Bernard Ahiafor, who asserted, “I will not allow the Minority Leader to turn the vetting room into a dance floor.” Afenyo-Markin, displeased by the ruling, described the Chairman’s conduct as “whimsical, capricious, and rude.”
This led to a standoff, with Ahiafor demanding an apology or threatening to block further questioning from the Minority Leader. Afenyo-Markin refused to retract his words, forcing the Chairman to suspend proceedings temporarily.
When proceedings resumed, Afenyo-Markin announced that the Majority Caucus had rejected the nomination of Justice Srem-Sai.
The incident has since sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the growing hostility within the Appointments Committee.
Akoloh emphasized that such behavior does not serve the national interest, stating, “They are having ego issues to the extent that the least thing that ought not to bring any controversial situations now does.”
