Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has issued a public apology to Deputy Minister-Designate for Health, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, following criticisms sparked by his earlier comments about her nomination.
The apology was made during Dr. Ayensu-Danquah’s vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee, where Afenyo-Markin took a moment to address the concerns directly.
His earlier remarks, made during a parliamentary debate, questioned the basis of her nomination.
Many interpreted his comments as suggesting her appointment was influenced by “strange reasons,” a phrase widely seen as implying favouritism over other female Members of Parliament, such as Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings.
The statement drew strong criticism from both within and outside Parliament, with many calling it dismissive of women’s competence and contributions in public office.
It also reignited broader concerns over gender equity in political appointments.
Seizing the moment during the vetting, Afenyo-Markin said:
“I want to say to you that to the extent that, as a colleague, we play, we relate very formally, informally, and at that moment unbeknownst to me, you felt I had crossed the red line, I say to you I’m sorry. Is that fair?”
Dr. Ayensu-Danquah, who doubles as Essikado-Ketan MP, responding calmly, accepted the apology:
“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.”
The exchange helped ease what could have been a contentious vetting process.
Beyond the immediate incident, the situation reignited national conversations about the role of women in governance.
Although female representation in Ghana’s Parliament has grown to around 14.5%, it still falls below the global average and the often-cited 30% target championed by gender advocates.
