There’s a coordinated autocratic abuse of power intended to silence our voices – Minority cries out
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has accused the government of using state power to intimidate and silence opposition members, describing the alleged conduct as a coordinated abuse of power.
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has spoken out against what he claims is a systematic abuse of power by the government in an attempt to stifle opposition voices. In an interview with the press on Wednesday, November 4, Afenyo-Markin detailed instances of intimidation, harassment, arrests, and detentions of members within his party. Despite these actions, the Minority Caucus remains steadfast in its commitment to hold the government accountable for its actions and advocate for the interests of the Ghanaian people.
The leader highlighted that several of his MPs have faced significant challenges, including legal troubles such as arrests and detention, which he believes are part of a broader strategy to weaken their resolve and suppress dissent. "We see in this pattern a coordinated autocratic abuse of power intended to exhaust our resolve and silence our voices," Afenyo-Markin stated.
This assertion comes in the wake of Tuesday's removal of Damongo MP Samuel Abu Jinapor from the parliamentary chamber by a Parliamentary Marshal for refusing to retract an allegation against Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
Afenyo-Markin emphasized that the Minority Caucus does not seek to evade lawful accountability, insisting that all citizens, including opposition members, must be held to the law. However, he cautioned against the misuse of state institutions and authority to demand political conformity, warning that the caucus will not compromise on its duty to hold the government accountable.
He reiterated the Minority's dedication to its role, declaring their resolve to continue their work despite the obstacles they face. Afenyo-Markin firmly stated, "We shall not be moved. We shall not be cowed. And we surely shall not be silenced."
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.