Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin is expected to face members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Parliamentary Caucus today, Monday, August 24, over extortion allegations levelled against him by Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) Chief Executive Officer, Sammy Gyamfi.
The meeting, scheduled ahead of Parliament’s sitting later today, is expected to give Mr. Afenyo-Markin an opportunity to respond to concerns raised by some NPP MPs over the allegations.
The controversy stems from comments by Mr. Gyamfi, who has accused the Minority Leader of using his scrutiny of GoldBod and the Bank of Ghana’s Domestic Gold Purchase Programme for personal gain. He has described Mr. Afenyo-Markin as an “extortionist” and challenged him to take legal action if he believes the allegation is defamatory.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin has rejected the allegations, insisting that his actions are part of Parliament’s constitutional oversight responsibilities. He has also indicated that he intends to pursue appropriate legal remedies over what he considers defamatory statements made against him.
Some NPP MPs reportedly consider the allegations serious and want the Minority Leader to provide further clarification to the Caucus.
The development comes amid an escalating dispute between Mr. Afenyo-Markin and Mr. Gyamfi over reported losses linked to the Bank of Ghana’s Domestic Gold Purchase Programme and the role of GoldBod in the transactions.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin has maintained that the Minority will continue to push for a parliamentary inquiry into the reported losses, while Mr. Gyamfi has repeatedly challenged the Minority Leader to substantiate his claims against GoldBod.
Parliament has been recalled from recess to consider urgent legislative business, with the NPP Caucus meeting expected to take place before the House resumes proceedings.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Mensah Moses
