Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has criticised the Minority caucus in Parliament, accusing them of deliberately obstructing essential government business, a move he claims could delay the payment of public servants’ salaries and derail crucial legislative initiatives.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin’s comments came on the back of Speaker Alban Bagbin's indefinite adjournment of Parliament on Thursday, 7 November 2024.

The session had been convened at the Majority's request to address critical issues; however, when the Business Committee failed to set an agenda, the meeting stalled.

In a symbolic display, Minority MPs took seats typically held by the Majority, effectively blocking their counterparts from entering the chamber.

Speaking to the press after the adjournment, the Majority leader voiced frustration, alleging that the Minority and Speaker Bagbin were colluding to disrupt the legislative process.

He warned that the impasse could delay budget approvals needed to secure public servant salaries in the first quarter of 2025.

“The Minority doesn’t want Ghanaians, especially public servants, to receive their pay,” Mr. Afenyo-Markin asserted.

He continued that: “After the elections, there will be no budget without approval, which is a constitutional requirement they seek to derail.”

Mr. Afenyo-Markin also accused the Minority of opposing the Free Senior High School (SHS) bill, a key initiative for the government.

He argued that the Minority has long opposed the policy, making it a target in this legislative session.

“Their main aim is to block the Free SHS bill, exploiting this impasse to prevent its passage,” he added, urging Ghanaians not to be misled by what he described as “propaganda” from the Minority.

Despite the tension, Mr. Afenyo-Markin expressed willingness to engage with Speaker Bagbin to find a solution.

He highlighted the importance of legislative cooperation to move Parliament forward, noting that the current stalemate leaves Parliament’s agenda and crucial policies in a state of limbo.