By Elsie Appiah-Osei
Accra, Feb. 5, GNA – The Minority Caucus in Parliament Tuesday formally distanced itself from the approval of Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa as Minister for Foreign Affairs.
The decision came after the Caucus expressed concerns over Mr Ablakwa’s conduct and responses during the vetting process.
Minority Leader, Mr Alexander Afenyo-Markin reiterated the Caucus’ stance during parliamentary proceedings stating that “the Minority could not endorse Mr Ablakwa’s appointment under the given circumstances.”
“… Mr Speaker, let me without equivocation state that we will proceed with the same abstinence. We abstain from his decision. It is solely a Majority call. All the sins of Ablakwa are upon their head,” he said.
As a result, in a symbolic gesture, Mr Habib Iddrisu, the First Minority Deputy Whip poured water on Mr Afenyo-Markin’s hands, on the Floor of the House which he washed, signifying the Minority’s detachment from the approval process.
This move followed the Minority’s earlier decision to abstain from voting on Mr Samuel Nartey George’s approval as Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations Minister.
Mr Afenyo-Markin further emphasised the Minority’s disapproval, stating, “… Mr Speaker, this one, we are washing our hands to tell them that every sin at the Airport Hills… All the Airport Hills sins are on their head.”
He, also cautioned, “Mr Speaker, if tomorrow he and his ORAL start pursuing you, it is on your head. But if he repents and comes back to this house, we will accept him,” the Minority leader added.
GNA