The National Democratic Congress (NDC) chapter in Essikado-Ketan is calling on Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin to issue a formal apology and retract comments made during recent parliamentary proceedings, which they describe as “disrespectful” and “divisive.”
In a statement issued Monday by the Concerned Citizens of Essikado-Ketan and signed by constituency spokesperson Abraham Dadzie, the group accused Afenyo-Markin of launching an “unwarranted verbal attack” on their representative, Prof. Dr. Grace Ayensu Danquah, who was recently appointed Deputy Minister of Health.
The controversy stems from remarks made by Afenyo-Markin on the floor of Parliament, in which he questioned the rationale behind Dr. Ayensu Danquah’s appointment, referring to “strange reasons” and suggesting preferential treatment over other qualified female legislators, notably Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings.
Local NDC leaders characterized the Minority Leader’s comments as a “calculated act of bullying and intimidation,” asserting that they reflect an attempt to “isolate and cast aspersions” on Dr. Ayensu Danquah’s professional relationships. They further argued that such rhetoric undermines not only the spirit of parliamentary cooperation but also the dignity of women serving in public office.
“The Parliament of the Republic of Ghana is a noble assembly meant for respectful dialogue and constructive debate,” the statement read. “It is with deep disappointment and indignation that we respond to the Minority Leader’s unprovoked attack on our MP.”
The Essikado-Ketan NDC called on Afenyo-Markin to issue what they termed an “unqualified apology” to Dr. Ayensu Danquah, Ghanaian women, and the constituents of Essikado-Ketan, stressing that his remarks had “deeply offended” the community.
“We urge the Minority Leader to do the honourable thing—retract, apologise, and reflect,” the statement concluded, while reaffirming Dr. Ayensu Danquah’s commitment to public service and national healthcare delivery.
