The Minority Leader and Ranking Member of the Appointments Committee of Parliament, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, has expressed concern over what he perceives as attempts to stifle free speech in the country.

Speaking during the vetting of Chief Justice nominee Paul Baffoe-Bonnie on Monday, November 10, 2025, Afenyo-Markin stated that the country is clouded with dark clouds, signaling impending danger.

Minority moves to stop Paul Baffoe-Bonnie's vetting

According to him, people cannot freely express themselves, even lawmakers, citing alleged intimidation tactics from the Majority caucus.

“…There are dark clouds indeed in this country where freedom of speech, by mere operation of a supermajority, you cannot even, as a Member of Parliament, make your comment,” he said.

He made this statement during a disagreement with the Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, over the Parliamentary Standing Orders guiding the Appointments Committee, after Afenyo-Markin described the Chief Justice position as ‘disputed.’

Meanwhile, the vetting of Justice Baffoe-Bonnie is yet to officially begin.

Baffoe-Bonnie Vetting: 'You don't have the right to tell me what to do' – Ahiafor tells Habib

Baffoe-Bonnie’s nomination by President John Dramani Mahama, in accordance with constitutional provisions, requires parliamentary approval for the appointment of a Chief Justice.

The vetting will assess his qualifications, judicial experience, and overall suitability for the role before the committee submits its report to the plenary for consideration.

MAG/MA

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