Afenyo-Markin's 'Jesus Kept Quiet' Defense Ignites Fierce Debate with Sammy Gyamfi

Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader in Parliament, appears to have softened his earlier public threat to initiate legal proceedings against Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) Chief Executive Officer, Sammy Gyamfi. Previously, Mr. Afenyo-Markin had publicly stated on Facebook his intention to pursue legal remedies concerning what he described as defamatory allegations, including claims that portrayed him as an “extortionist.” However, less than 24 hours later, the Effutu MP adopted a more measured tone, declining to commit to court action when questioned on JoyNews’ The Probe on Sunday evening, August 23.

During his interview, Mr. Afenyo-Markin invoked the biblical example of Jesus Christ, who he noted remained silent despite facing accusations. He stated that he would rely on his previous statements without further elaboration, advising against rushing to judgment. The Minority Leader emphasized that as an accomplished businessman and a leader within the NPP tradition, he is keenly aware of the high expectations for maturity and conduct placed upon him by the people of Ghana. He asserted that he would not allow emotions to dictate his response to the personal attacks.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin characterized the allegations against him as a political strategy aimed at diverting public attention from substantive issues surrounding the Bank of Ghana’s Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP) and the reported financial losses linked to GoldBod’s transactions. Drawing on his experience as a former Majority Leader, he stated his familiarity with how government can employ tactics to redirect public discourse. He cautioned against being emotionally swayed, perceiving the political arena as a strategic game where opponents may try to “stain the man” and shift focus from core issues.

He further contextualized the controversy by recalling the experiences of other Minority Leaders, including the current Majority Leader and former Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, who faced criminal proceedings while serving in opposition. Mr. Afenyo-Markin reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the mandate given to him by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) – to diligently scrutinize the government and advocate for the interests of Ghana. While acknowledging the entitlement of political opponents to criticize, he warned against what he termed “excessive and unacceptable language.” He assured that he and his Minority Caucus colleagues had already taken appropriate steps regarding the comments but would not permit the controversy to derail their governmental oversight. He underscored that the Minority’s concerns over the DGPP and its associated reported losses constituted a national, patriotic call, transcending partisan politics.

The Minority Leader declared that the caucus's primary focus would remain on pursuing a parliamentary inquiry into the reported losses under the gold purchase programme. He confirmed that a motion had been filed to this effect, promising to focus on this objective. Expressing his readiness for the personal attacks that can accompany his position, he reiterated that he would not be the first Minority Leader to endure such pressures, citing instances of opposition leaders facing arrests or investigations in other jurisdictions, and again referencing Dr. Ato Forson's court appearances while serving as Minority Leader.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin expressed a profound understanding of the responsibilities that come with his position, stating his reliance on God and gratitude for his party's support. His immediate priority is to secure parliamentary approval for the Minority’s motion, which seeks the establishment of an ad hoc committee. He anticipates that hearings will commence during the parliamentary break, with findings available by October to inform the consideration of the 2027 Budget. Crucially, he advocated for a live public broadcast of the hearings to ensure transparency regarding the GoldBod losses. These latest remarks signify a departure from his initial resolve for legal action, signaling a strategic shift towards parliamentary scrutiny of the GoldBod transactions as the main objective.