The Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has urged the Majority group in Parliament to halt the exhibition of placards featuring the image of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta during parliamentary proceedings.
Raising the issue on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, March 4, Mr. Afenyo-Markin expressed concern over the actions of some Majority Members of Parliament who displayed placards portraying Mr. Ofori-Atta during the State of the Nation Address.
According to the Minority Leader, political dissent should not result in actions that tarnish the reputation of individuals who have not been found guilty by any court of law.
He noted that allowing such conduct to continue could create an unhealthy precedent in Parliament.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin called on the Majority Chief Whip and leadership to ensure that similar incidents do not recur, in order to maintain decorum and peace in the House.
The Minority Leader indicated that while Parliament remains a space for robust political debate, personal attacks and public ridicule should be avoided to protect the dignity of members and preserve mutual respect within the chamber.
He added that the family of Mr. Ofori-Atta had conveyed deep concern over the incident, emphasizing that the former minister deserves fairness and respect despite political differences.
“No court has found him guilty. We can do our politics, but to also print his pictures deliberately—and that day the whole world’s attention was on this chamber. I would plead through my friend the Chief Whip to ensure that in future any such action is curtailed, controlled, or stopped by him so that this House would get the needed peace. Because, Mr. Speaker, if we don’t stop it, a certain precedent will be set,” he stated.