Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has warned the Attorney General to stop threatening New Patriotic Party (NPP) Members of Parliament with prosecution, stating that the current government risks being in opposition in 2028. This direct caution was delivered on Thursday, July 23, following Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson's presentation of the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin accused the government of engaging in political persecution, which he described as unprecedented in Ghana's political landscape. He highlighted the conviction of NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, and the case of TikToker Camila Alhassan, as examples of what he termed political imprisonment. These instances, he argued, demonstrate a pattern of targeting opposition figures.
This development fits into a broader narrative of heightened political tension and accusations of judicial weaponization in Ghana. The country often experiences intense political rivalries, especially as general elections approach. Such warnings from a prominent opposition figure underscore concerns about the impartiality of state institutions and the rule of law, which are crucial for economic stability and investor confidence.
“What we are experiencing in this country is persecution, persecution, persecution. For the first time, we are seeing political imprisonment,” Mr. Afenyo-Markin stated on the floor of Parliament. He further warned, “You are threatening members of Parliament with prosecution. Let me serve a warning to the Attorney General. Be careful. 2028, you will be in opposition.”
The implications of these warnings are significant for Ghana's political future and its democratic health. If the alleged actions continue, it could further polarize the political environment, potentially affecting policy implementation and investor sentiment. Decision-makers and political observers will closely watch how the Attorney General's office responds and whether these accusations lead to any formal investigations or changes in prosecutorial approaches. The political climate leading up to the 2028 general election will likely be shaped by such exchanges.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin also suggested that current government officials could face similar legal challenges if power shifts in the next election. He explicitly stated, “If you are not careful, if you don't stop now, you will go and meet Wontumi there, and Wontumi will be out, and you will go in.” This statement highlights a cycle of political retribution that could undermine governance and institutional trust.
Despite his strong criticism, the Minority Leader commended Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson for acknowledging some digitalization reforms initiated by the previous NPP administration. He described this acknowledgment as a patriotic gesture, indicating that some areas of bipartisan cooperation are still possible. However, this commendation was overshadowed by his broader concerns about political persecution.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin urged the government to ensure fairness in all its dealings and called for the release of what he termed “political prisoners.” He insisted that opposition MPs would not be silenced by intimidation. “You can decide to imprison every MP. It will not shut us down. We will criticise you. We will hold your feet to account,” he asserted, reinforcing the opposition's commitment to oversight.
He further cautioned government officials to reflect on their actions, alleging that ongoing investigations into public procurement could expose some members of the current administration to future legal consequences. This suggests a potential for future legal battles, irrespective of the outcome of the 2028 elections, based on current government activities.