Speaking on the floor on Wednesday, March 4, Afenyo-Markin raised concerns about an incident during the State of the Nation Address when some Majority MPs held up placards with Ofori-Atta’s image.
He noted that the display had drawn strong reactions from both the New Patriotic Party’s Council of Elders and the former minister’s family.
The Minority Leader stressed that political disagreements should not lead to actions that damage the reputation of individuals who have not been convicted by any court. He warned that allowing such behavior could set a negative precedent in Parliament.
Afenyo-Markin appealed to the Majority Chief Whip and parliamentary leadership to prevent similar incidents in the future, emphasizing the need to maintain decorum and harmony in the chamber.
He also highlighted the concerns of Ofori-Atta’s family, insisting they deserve fairness despite political differences.
“No court has found him guilty. We can engage in politics, but deliberately printing his pictures when the world was watching this chamber sets a dangerous precedent.
I urge the Chief Whip to ensure such actions are controlled or stopped so that this House can maintain peace,” he said.
In response, Majority Chief Whip Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor called on Ofori-Atta’s family to encourage him to return to Ghana and submit to due process.