Bernard Ahiafor refers Afenyo-Markin to privileges committee over security recruitment “scam” claim

The First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Bernard Ahiafor, has referred the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, to the Privileges Committee following allegations that he described the government’s ongoing security recruitment exercise as a scam.

The referral stems from a formal complaint filed by the Interior Minister, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, who accused the lawmaker of contempt after he allegedly made statements on the floor of Parliament questioning the integrity of the recruitment process.

Addressing the House on Tuesday, the minister said the Minority Leader had labelled the exercise “scandalous” during proceedings on Friday and suggested that corruption was imminent, with some officials potentially facing jail terms. He argued that such claims were defamatory and should be substantiated before the appropriate forum.

“Based on our standing orders 31E and F, that is contemptuous,” Muntaka said. “The appropriate place to substantiate such claims is before the Privileges Committee, where he will have ample time to present his allegations and we can meet him with the facts.”

Responding to the referral, Afenyo-Markin welcomed the move but called for the investigation to be held publicly. He maintained that he was prepared to defend his remarks and provide evidence.

“Let the referral be made, and let there be a public hearing. I will avail myself should you exercise that discretion, and the matter can then be brought to a peaceful resolution,” he said.

The Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, criticised the Minority Leader, accusing him of attempting to manufacture scandals to damage the government’s image. He warned that severe sanctions could follow if the allegations prove unsubstantiated.

“I want to hear the evidence in public. The attempt to scandalise this government will not succeed,” Ayariga said, adding that any conflict of interest involving officials would be addressed, but unfounded claims would attract the “most severe punishment.”

Clarifying the process, Ahiafor stressed that the referral does not amount to a finding of guilt. He noted that the Minority Leader remains presumed innocent until the committee completes its investigations and presents recommendations to the House.

The Privileges Committee is expected to examine the matter and determine whether the comments constitute contempt of Parliament.