Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has led members of the Minority Caucus in Parliament to meet the Christian Council of Ghana to discuss key national issues, including concerns about GoldBod and government accountability.
The engagement provided an opportunity for the Caucus to share its concerns with the Council and discuss issues it says have implications for governance and the public interest.
He made the remarks after a working visit to the Council, where discussions covered national issues including GoldBod, the Bank of Ghana, narcotics, the rule of law, illegal mining and freedom of speech.
“This morning you’ve given us a voice. At least you have heard us. We appreciate that,” he said.
Mr Afenyo-Markin said his experience as a former Majority Leader had given him an understanding of the opposition’s role in Parliament and its responsibility to engage constructively with government.
“We will never obstruct government business. We owe it a duty to democracy to help government succeed. So we’re not going to be obstructionist, but at least the Majority must hear us and listen to us and cooperate with us,” he said.
He also called for stronger communication among political actors on major governance issues, citing the National Cathedral project. He said the project should be considered not only for its religious purpose but also for its potential as a national asset and tourist attraction.
Referring to a recent training programme in Turkey, Mr Afenyo-Markin said he had seen an old mosque drawing about 4,000 visitors daily to take photographs. He argued that the National Cathedral could similarly attract visitors and support Ghana’s tourism prospects.
However, he criticised what he described as a lack of clarity and consistency from the government about the intended use of the Cathedral site, and called for further stakeholder engagement.
“I take away from your remarks: disagree without becoming enemies,” he told the Council.
