The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has apologised to the Deputy Minister-designate of Health, Prof Grace Ayensu-Danquah, over controversial remarks he made questioning her ministerial appointment.

The apology, delivered during Prof Ayensu-Danquah's vetting before Parliament's Appointments Committee on Friday, July 25, 2025, came after backlash over comments made by the Effutu MP earlier this month.

Afenyo-Markin had questioned why the ruling NDC government nominated her as Deputy Minister of Health ahead of more senior female party members.

Faced with widespread criticism, Afenyo-Markin apologised to Prof Ayensu-Danquah during her vetting, expressing regret over his choice of words.

He said, "No, I had crossed the red line. I say to you, I'm sorry, is that fair?...

"I needed to clarify the point. We are on national TV, and I want to be sensitive to your feelings because I am a husband and a father, and I wouldn't want anybody to do that to my wife or my sister.

"So, once you feel that way and you have expressed it or somebody has expressed it on your behalf, it's my duty to react to it as a Christian who wants to perfect my Christian life. So, I'm sorry once again," he said.

Prof Ayensu-Danqua accepted the apology, stating, "That is fair, and I'm very appreciative that you have taken this opportunity to apologise. And I hope that moving forward, we will have a better relationship. And I'm very grateful and humbled. Thank you."

During a heated debate in Parliament on July 14, 2025, Afenyo-Markin openly scolded the Essikadu-Ketan MP, insisting she was out of order for attempting to raise a point while he was speaking.

The visibly agitated Minority Leader said, "My colleague, your name is not even on the list yet. We have only heard rumours that you will be facing the Appointments Committee, and this is what you choose to be doing?

"You came to meet Dr Zanetor here, and for some strange reason, it appears your name is being considered when even party stalwarts like Helen Ntoso are still waiting. And yet you want to be raising points of order while your leader is speaking?"

The comments, perceived as dismissive and discriminatory, sparked outrage among MPs and on social media, with critics accusing Afenyo-Markin of undermining women in Parliament.

Prof Ayensu-Danquah, visibly displeased, raised her concerns to the Speaker, "Mr Speaker, there are only 14% of women in this House, and some of these statements are very discouraging.

"I was simply standing up, waiting to catch your eye, when I was attacked for no reason.

"Speaker, it makes it very difficult for women to speak when we face veiled threats and passive-aggressive behaviour. I respectfully request that part of the statement be expunged from the records because I was offended by it, having done nothing to deserve such treatment."

She further stressed the need for Parliament to create a more inclusive and respectful environment for female MPs.

AM/SEA

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