Accra: The Minority in Parliament has voiced sharp criticism against the John Dramani Mahama-led government, highlighting several areas of concern including the stalled anti-LGBTQ+ bill, illegal mining activities, the ongoing transport crisis, and delays in the implementation of the 24-Hour Economy policy. At a press conference held on January 26, 2025, the Minority reaffirmed its commitment to constitutional democracy and public oversight.
According to Ghana Web, the Minority Leader, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, took the opportunity to commend journalists for their role in amplifying the voice of the Minority and safeguarding democratic institutions. He emphasized the importance of the caucus's role in holding the government accountable on critical national issues. Afenyo-Markin stated that the true strength of Parliament is demonstrated not by the majority's size but by the Minority's courage to hold the government accountable.
The Minority also addressed economic issues, rejecting claims that Ghana's economic gains are due to prudent government management. Instead, it attributed improvements largely to external factors, such as the IMF programme, debt restructuring, and rising commodity exports like gold and cocoa. Despite positive headline indicators, many Ghanaians continue to face challenges such as high food prices, unemployment, and limited access to essential services. The caucus argued that fiscal consolidation often comes at the expense of critical sectors, stating that macroeconomic stability has yet to benefit the majority of citizens.
On the stalled anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, the Minority accused the government of double standards, noting its previous support while in opposition but failure to advance the bill in Parliament. Concerns were also raised about gender and sexual rights content in school curricula, which the government later termed an 'anomaly'. The Minority pledged to hold the government accountable on these cultural and moral issues.
Illegal mining, or galamsey, was another focal point of the Minority's critique. Afenyo-Markin argued that the government lacks a clear policy and concrete measures to combat illegal mining. He criticized the Gold Board for not adequately distinguishing between legally mined gold and that obtained from illicit operations. The worsening condition of Ghana's water bodies was cited as evidence of the government's lack of genuine commitment, with the Minority calling for transparency and sustainable cost-sharing systems.
In agriculture, the Minority criticized the government for failing to support the sector effectively, pointing out that farmers continue to lack necessary resources to drive growth and food security. The caucus also urged the government to focus on strengthening Ghana's domestic economy, diversifying international partnerships, and grounding foreign policy in constitutional and ethical principles.
Additionally, the Minority questioned judicial independence and leadership, calling for transparency and active engagement to maintain democratic integrity. Concerns were raised about the Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie's visits to key state institutions, including the Ghana Police Service and Parliament, questioning their purpose and timing.