Respect democracy, stop the intimidation – Afenyo-Markin to gov’t

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has criticized the government. This follows an attempted arrest of Assin South MP, Rev Ntim Fordjour. The arrest was carried out by operatives from the National Investigations Bureau (NIB).

Afenyo-Markin spoke at Rev Fordjour’s residence in Accra. Members of the New Patriotic Party and supporters gathered there in solidarity. He called the operation a troubling departure from democratic principles.

He stated, “We’ve been in this exercise for years.” He added that such actions should not be part of the government's legacy. “Four years may seem far, but it’s nearer than it appears,” he cautioned.

Afenyo-Markin stressed that democracy relies on dialogue, not intimidation. He said, “In a democracy, disagreement is not criminal.” If the government disagrees with opinions expressed, it should respond appropriately.

“You don’t send armed men to arrest a sitting Member of Parliament,” he continued. “If you disagree, let’s engage. Enough is enough.”

He assured the government that the opposition is open to cooperation. However, he emphasized that engagements must be respectful and within democratic order.

“We will cooperate if they approach things decently,” he stated firmly. “But we will not be intimidated.”

In closing, Afenyo-Markin showed unity and support for Rev Fordjour. He affirmed, “Reverend is not a loner. He has not walked alone. He will never walk alone.”