We need leaders with integrity – Dramani warns supermajority Parliament over Afenyo-Markin allegations

Dr Rasheed Dramani, Executive Director of the Africa Centre for Parliamentary Affairs, has called on Parliament to address allegations involving its members with seriousness, warning that neglect could deepen the public's distrust in the institution. Speaking on Joy News' PM Express, Dr Dramani expressed his primary concern regarding the role of the office of the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, especially in the context of a supermajority government.

He emphasized the need for leaders with integrity and a high moral standard to hold the supermajority and the executive accountable. Dr Dramani's comments come amidst controversy triggered by allegations from GoldBod Chief Executive Officer Sammy Gyamfi, who accused Afenyo-Markin of being an "extortionist." Afenyo-Markin rejected the allegation and threatened legal action, leading to a legal confrontation.

The Office of the Special Prosecutor is now conducting a preliminary assessment to determine whether to open a full-scale investigation. Dr Dramani highlighted the history of allegations within Parliament that have not always resulted in clear resolutions, attributing part of the issue to partisan solidarity overriding accountability.

He questioned whether Parliament applies the same scrutiny to itself as it does to the executive, citing the Public Accounts Committee's actions as an example. Dr Dramani pointed out the political cost of investigating fellow MPs, which often deters them from pursuing allegations against their own. He urged Parliament to establish a clear process for handling allegations from investigation to resolution, suggesting the inclusion of eminent Ghanaians in any ad hoc committee to improve public trust and resolve the matter definitively.