Afenyo-Markin accuses NDC of double standards over accountability and criticism

The Minority Leader of Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has criticized the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) for allegedly maintaining a distinct stance on accountability since coming into power. Afenyo-Markin contends that the party, which had consistently called for oversight of government actions during its eight years in opposition, now appears reluctant to accept similar scrutiny of its own administration.

In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), he highlighted that the NDC previously framed questioning government decisions as a patriotic act, yet now perceives legitimate criticism as political animosity. Afenyo-Markin questioned whether the standards of accountability had altered due to a shift in political power, insisting that accountability should be mandatory for all public officials irrespective of the governing party.

He emphasized that during the Akufo-Addo administration, the NDC examined contracts, contested appointments, probed public spending, and debated government promises. Afenyo-Markin pointed out that the party’s history of demanding accountability is documented in interviews, press conferences, public statements, and social media posts, accessible to Ghanaians for evaluation.

He reiterated that holding public officials accountable should not be misconstrued as a personal affront or an attempt to discredit the government, but rather as a fundamental democratic duty. The Minority Leader assured continued investigative efforts by the Minority Caucus, including the review of government documents, examination of contracts, questioning of public spending, and assessment of the government’s adherence to its promises.

Afenyo-Markin firmly stated that the Minority’s actions were motivated by a commitment to accountability, not opposition for the sake of opposition. He warned that the NDC, now in government, cannot set different standards for past scrutiny while condemning the same practices when directed at its own administration. Afenyo-Markin concluded that the NDC must be prepared to adhere to the same accountability standards it previously demanded, asserting that the Minority Caucus remains steadfast in its oversight responsibilities.