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The Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has cautioned the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) against antagonising the minority in Parliament.
According to the Effutu MP,, there is a need for collaboration between the Majority and Minority caucuses in Parliament when making decisions.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with JoyNews on Wednesday, February 19, Mr Afenyo-Markin criticised the practice of governments using their power to suppress opponents rather than fostering constructive dialogue.
He explained that this recurring cycle of political attacks is counterproductive and does not serve the country’s interests.
"At any point you will need the minority to broad concerns, to take decisions so you don't antagonize the minority," he said.
"You don't attack the minority that you think that if you suppress them, if you do this, you call them names, that is when you will be seen as clean."
Mr Afenyo-Markin stated that despite the NDC’s overwhelming majority in Parliament—with 183 MPs plus four independents—the party often struggles to maintain full attendance in the chamber.
He revealed that on several occasions, fewer than 104 NDC MPs were present during proceedings, making minority input crucial for parliamentary functions.
The Effutu legislator also alleged that the NDC had instructed its MPs to disrupt him whenever he speaks. However, he dismissed this strategy as ineffective.
“The NDC went into a meeting and the decision was that anytime I rise to speak, their back bench should start shouting. But I said these guys, whoever gave you this idea has not helped you that when the Minority Leader is on his feet, get up and be shouting. I'm not the type that when you shout, it will break me down. I will make my point."
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