The Chairman of the Appointments Committee, Bernard Ahiafor, has defended his leadership style amidst criticism from some members of the Minority, arguing that his approach has ensured the smooth vetting of over 40 ministerial nominees.
Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Monday, February 3, the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament dismissed claims that his perceived lack of assertiveness on the committee has led to controversies.
Responding to remarks from the Deputy Minority Leader that he lacks exposure on the committee, he argued that his decisions have been informed and strategic.
“Well, in everything that you do, you get more experience along the line. But I will not say that that was the reason,” Mr Ahiafor said.
Mr Ahiafor’s remarks come amid heightened tensions between the Majority and Minority caucuses in Parliament, particularly regarding the vetting and approval of ministerial nominees.
While some members of the Minority have expressed concerns about his approach, the Akatsi South MP remains resolute that his leadership has been essential in maintaining order and facilitating due process.
“Sometimes I do things and take decisions from an informed point of view. The general public might not be aware of why certain decisions, certain postures, certain tolerance levels were coming from the Chairperson of the Appointments Committee, but I know exactly what I’m doing at every point in time.”
He stated that his leadership style has prevented unnecessary conflict and ensured progress in the vetting process.
“I have, all alone, resisted many invitations to fight for a stated reason. Look, I am a member of the NDC. My colleagues, NDC members, have been vetted because NDC is in power. The president is like my father.
“Therefore, if I am invited by my opponent we should go and fight on my father’s farm, knowing very well that if I engage the person in fighting, it is the crops on the farm that will be destroyed, what do I do?”
Mr Ahiafor posed a rhetorical question to critics of his leadership approach, stating, “If I take a decision not to fight, am I a weak person or a sensible person? Well, you are left with a judgment.”
The First Deputy Speaker noted that despite the heated political environment, he has chosen to prioritise efficiency over combativeness, ensuring that the vetting process remains constructive.
“If I were combative, we wouldn’t have vetted over 40 ministerial nominees,” he stressed.
“The work we do is serious, and it is not about flexing muscles. It’s about making informed decisions that serve the country’s best interest.”
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