Appiagyei Rejects Surprise Nomination Citing Lack of Consultation
Deputy Minority Leader Patricia Appiagyei has formally turned down her appointment to Ghana’s restructured ECOWAS Parliament delegation. In a memorandum dated July 22 and sent to the Speaker of Parliament, she raised concerns about the lack of transparency and internal consultation in the nomination process.
According to Appiagyei, the leadership of the Minority Caucus had agreed that Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin would remain a delegate to the ECOWAS Parliament. She noted that this consensus had been communicated to the Committee of Selection. However, she was unexpectedly nominated as his replacement on the parliamentary floor — a move she called “deeply troubling.”
A Valid Term Still in Place for Afenyo-Markin
Appiagyei emphasized that Afenyo-Markin, who took office last year as a member and Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, holds a valid four-year term under ECOWAS rules. She reminded the Speaker that removal from this position can only occur if the member resigns, is appointed to an executive or judicial role, or becomes otherwise ineligible. She stated that none of these conditions apply to the current Minority Leader.
Gender Representation Should Not Justify Flawed Process
While supporting greater female inclusion in regional leadership, Appiagyei cautioned against using gender parity to justify politically motivated decisions. She stressed that meaningful representation must come through open dialogue and respect for due process, not unilateral nominations.
A Call to Reverse the Decision
In her conclusion, Appiagyei asked for her name to be withdrawn from the parliamentary resolution. She also urged the Speaker to uphold the original delegation list: Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Kwame Anyimadu Antwi, and Bryan Acheampong. She firmly stated that no formal communication should be made to the ECOWAS Parliament listing her as a delegate.
For full details, see the original report on MyJoyOnline.
