Omanghana
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has cautioned the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) against using its numerical strength in Parliament to intimidate opposition lawmakers.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, he pointed to the outcome of the United States midterm elections as a reminder that voters can change the balance of political power.
Mr Afenyo-Markin said the Minority’s smaller numbers should not prevent its members from participating fully in parliamentary proceedings or holding the government accountable.
US Election Lesson
The Minority Leader referred to the November 3 US elections, in which Democrats won majorities in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, delivering a setback to President Donald Trump’s Republican Party.
The newly elected US Congress is due to begin its term on January 3, 2027.
Mr Afenyo-Markin said the result demonstrated that an electoral majority should not be treated as permanent.
“People who give you power can take it away,” he said.
Minority Rights and Parliamentary Tensions
The Minority Leader also warned that weakening parliamentary scrutiny could lead to what he described as an “elective dictatorship.” He urged Speaker Alban Bagbin to act as a neutral arbiter and ensure that both sides of the House are heard.
His comments followed the removal of Damongo MP Samuel Abu Jinapor from the chamber on November 3 after a disagreement over an allegation concerning diplomatic passports. Minority MPs walked out in protest.
The Minority said Mr Jinapor had withdrawn his remarks before he was ordered out. Mr Bagbin, for his part, said the collective walkout was unnecessary and that he would carry out his responsibilities without being intimidated by either caucus.
Source: Omanghana
