Tensions flare at vetting committee, forcing temporal suspension [VIDEO]

The second sitting of Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Monday, January 20, 2025, was overshadowed by disagreements among members, delaying the vetting of Roads and Highways Minister-designate Kwame Governs Agbodza.

The session opened with contentious exchanges, particularly over preliminary concerns of Effutu MP and Ranking Member Alexander Afenyo-Markin.

He questioned the non-existence of a Cabinet Secretary, prompting Bawku Central MP Mahama Ayariga to call for a focus on the day’s primary task.

“We are here to vet ministerial nominees. If there are concerns, other avenues can be used to address them,” Mr Ayariga suggested, urging the committee to proceed without diversion.

This remark drew an objection from Minority Chief Whip and Nsawam Adoagyiri MP Francis Annoh-Dompreh, who expressed dissatisfaction with Mr. Ayariga’s comments.

Committee Chairman Bernard Ahiafor, the Akatsi South MP, stepped in to maintain order, requesting Mr Annoh-Dompreh to refrain from further remarks to keep the vetting on track.

However, Mr. Annoh-Dompreh’s resistance to the directive led to a heated exchange, further delaying proceedings.

Amid murmurs from members, the atmosphere underscored the tension within the committee as it sought to move forward with its mandate.

An attempt by Mr. Afenyo-Markin to slip in issues about the removal of CEOs also drew reactions from the majority side, prompting the chair to inform Mr. Afenyo-Markin to stay on track.

After the back and forth, the committee paused for a few minutes to address the issues privately.

Efforts to restore focus were eventually successful, allowing the vetting to proceed, but the exchanges highlighted divisions within the committee.